January 27, 2003

Lansing - Michigan State Police Director Colonel Stephen D. Madden has announced that Motor Carrier Officer Daniel J. Litzner of the St. Ignace Post is the recipient of the 2002 Motor Carrier Officer of the Year Award.

This award, sponsored by the Michigan Trucking Association since 1985, was established to recognize the motor carrier officer who symbolizes outstanding professional ethics, dedication to duty and concern for giving back to their community.

Litzner is recognized for his high level of enthusiasm and motivation both on the job and in his community. A motor carrier officer for the past 16 years, Litzner is renowned as one of the most knowledgeable officers in the state regarding commercial vehicle laws and regulations. His knowledge of hazardous materials, school bus inspection and safety, and commercial vehicle laws and regulations generates many requests for training sessions from law enforcement agencies and members of the commercial vehicle industry.

Litzner is also a role model and leader in his community by being active in the Foster Parent Program, conducting road skill tests for young drivers trying to obtain their driver’s license and as a teacher to the young people of his church.

Litzner began with the department in November 1978, as a school bus inspector. In 1986, he became a motor carrier officer after graduating as a member of the 4^th Motor Carrier Division Recruit School. He was first assigned to the Negaunee Post and has served at the St. Ignace Post since 1996. A native of Negaunee, he resides in St. Ignace with his wife, Constance, and children Jason and Bekka.

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