CRESTVIEW — Special Olympics USA Games athlete and gold medalist was awarded a "key to the city of Crestview" during the city council's regular meeting on Aug. 13.
Crestview resident Harrison Mauldin competed in July at the 2018 Special Olympics USA Games in Seattle, Washington.
Mauldin explained his medals to the crowd at the city council meeting. He was sporting two gold medals, one bronze medal, and a quartz medal around his neck. He received the gold medals after placing first in the 10,000-meter run and the 4-by-400-meter run.
Mayor David Cadle then asked Mauldin about his experience.
"It was wonderful. To be honest, the weather over there was a bit nicer. It's still nice here," Mauldin said.
After Mauldin spoke about his experience, Cadle then presented Mauldin with the wooden plaque with a large golden key placed at the top. "The key to the city" award is typically given to honor someone of significance to a city.
"You did us proud. The highest award that I can present to you is the key to the city," Cadle said. "The key to the city is presented to Harrison Mauldin … Congratulations."
Mauldin received a roaring applause and standing ovation from the crowd at the city council meeting. According to a Facebook post on the Special Olympics Florida Okaloosa County page, Mauldin and his family members finished out the night with a celebratory dinner at Hideaway Pizza.
Cadle also awarded six firefighters for reaching their 10-year anniversary with the Crestview Fire Department.
"I appreciate you guys very much," Cadle said. "I'm always talking about firefighters. You see a fire. You run towards it. I'm running the other way."
Fire Chief Anthony Holland spoke about his firemen before receiving a 25-year service award from the mayor.
"It's been an honor to work with each one of these guys. They all have contributed to the growth of the department," Holland said.
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This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: USA Games athlete awarded 'key to the city of Crestview'