The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office delivered a thank you Thursday to a local sailor who came to the aid of a Jacksonville police officer.

Juan Gallegos received a certificate of appreciation at police headquarters.

Last year, he witnessed Officer Jared Reston chasing a shoplifting suspect near Regency Mall. Gallegos tired to help, but the suspect opened fire, hitting Reston in the face. The officer returned fire, killing the suspect.

Gallegos stayed with Reston until an ambulance arrived and said he is still shocked by what he saw that night.

Gallegos said when his time serving in the Navy is completed, he plans to make Jacksonville his home and pursue a civilian career in law enforcement.

Previous Stories:

• February 27, 2009: Sailor Honored For Aiding Police Officer
• January 16, 2009: Detective Shot In Face Named Officer Of Year
• October 22, 2008: Officer, Firefighter Honored For Heroic Efforts
• August 28, 2008: Officer Recounts Being Shot, Killing Suspect
• February 15, 2008: Sailor Speaks Out About Seeing Officer Shot
• January 29, 2008: Sheriff: Armed Teen Wanted To Kill Officer
• January 28, 2008: Sheriff: Officer Shot In Gunfight Improving
• January 27, 2008: Officer Shot 6 Times Shoots, Kills Teenage Gunman
• January 26, 2008: Officer Shot Several Times In Gun Battle; Suspect Dead