Officer Willis Wood “Johnny” Sides, #337

On Saturday, November 8, 2014, the Dallas Junior Chamber of Commerce (DJCC) hosted the 62nd Annual Johnny Sides Rookie of the Year Awards. This prestigious award recognizes Dallas’ finest police officers, in memory of Officer Willis Wood “Johnny” Sides, #337. A rookie is defined as someone novel in the profession. Despite his short tenure of 3 months at the end of his watch, Officer Johnny Sides was an exceptional police officer and a DJCC member, who inspired police and citizens alike with his dedication, leadership, care, and sacrifice. Officer Sides was fatally wounded when a group of four wanted criminals opened fire on him and his partner during a traffic stop on February 7, 1951. As he was fighting for his life from his hospital bed, Johnny Sides positively identified all four suspects, resulting in their capture and prosecution. Following his death, the DJCC has honored extraordinary Dallas Police rookie officers every year beginning in 1952.

This year’s winner is Officer Justin Gladney, #10396, who graduated from Class 329 and is currently assigned to the Central Patrol Division. The runner-ups include Officer Brandon Gailliard, #10427, who also graduated from Class 329, and is currently assigned to the Central Patrol Division, and Officer Robert Hollingsworth, #10266, who graduated from Class 330, and is currently assigned to the Northwest Division Patrol Division.