Sunstates Security Honors Aaron Polak as 2025 Security Officer of the Year

Sunstates Security is honored to name Aaron Polak, an officer based in Fort Lauderdale, as the company’s 2025 Security Officer of the Year. The recognition was presented at Sunstates’ annual leadership conference held in May, which celebrated Polak’s heroic life-saving response and unwavering commitment to service.

On October 27, 2024, while assigned to a luxury senior living community—part of the nation’s largest land-based federation—Officer Polak responded to a medical emergency involving an unresponsive resident. Drawing on his training and composure under pressure, Polak initiated CPR alongside an EMR team member. When initial efforts failed, he swiftly instructed the team to retrieve and deploy an AED. After the second shock cycle, the resident regained a pulse and consciousness. She has since made a full recovery with no lasting effects.

“Aaron’s quick thinking, medical training, and calm leadership quite literally saved a life,” said Denis Kelly, CEO of Sunstates Security. “His professionalism and compassion are the embodiment of our mission to serve and protect with excellence.”

Polak’s background includes a decade of service in the Israeli military, which equipped him with advanced situational awareness, tactical discipline, and a strong ethic of teamwork. He also completed EMT training in Coral Springs, FL, prior to joining Sunstates as an armed officer in early 2024. Recognized early on for his attentiveness and outstanding customer service, Polak was quickly assigned to a high-profile permanent post at the client site.

Leadership at the facility praised his decisive actions. The client’s Vice President shared, “Aaron, your compassion and dedication to our residents and team members is greatly appreciated.” The client’s President & CEO added, “His efforts were significant and impactful. We truly appreciate his commitment and dedication to our residents.”

Sunstates also recognized two additional officers for outstanding performance:

• Second Place: Araya Wheeler (Nashville) – Honored for her exemplary conduct in managing a high-stress incident involving a truck crash. Her swift action ensured the driver’s safety and kept the scene secure and organized.

• Third Place: Danny Caldwell (Raleigh) – Celebrated for his compassionate and effective handling of interactions with unhoused individuals, as well as the skilled de-escalation of multiple potentially violent situations.

“These officers represent the best of Sunstates,” said Kelly. “We are grateful for their courage, commitment, and service in keeping our communities safe.”

About Sunstates Security
Headquartered in Raleigh, North Carolina, Sunstates Security is a nationally recognized provider of contract security services. Known for its employee-focused culture and customized client solutions, Sunstates is committed to delivering exceptional service with integrity, reliability, and professionalism. To learn more about what sets Sunstates apart or to inquire about our services, contact us.

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Meredith Rutledge

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Sunstates Security

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