July 12, 2025

Tampa International Airport Officer Recognized for Community Service

News Summary

Officer Andres Perilla of the Tampa International Airport Police Department has received recognition for his outstanding community service and mental health advocacy. His efforts, especially post-Hurricane Ian, demonstrate a commitment to both colleagues and the local community. Through his work, Perilla highlights the importance of mental well-being in high-stress environments, and he actively promotes mental health resources for first responders. The collaboration with local organizations aims to address mental health training and support, fostering a more resilient environment within law enforcement.

Tampa International Airport Officer Recognized for Community Service and Mental Health Advocacy

Officer Andres Perilla, a dedicated member of the Tampa International Airport Police Department, has been recognized for his exceptional community service and advocacy for mental health awareness. His commitment to helping others has made a significant impact both within his profession and throughout the local community.

Following the devastation caused by Hurricane Ian in 2022, Perilla volunteered to assist local law enforcement and engage in cleanup efforts in the hardest-hit areas. This act of service underscores his commitment to the community and exemplifies the spirit of collaboration among first responders during emergencies. Originally from Cali, Colombia, Perilla has a deep appreciation for connecting with individuals from diverse backgrounds, which enriches his understanding of service and empathy.

In addition to his work at the airport, Perilla actively promotes mental health awareness among both colleagues and passengers. He offers encouragement and support to those around him, recognizing the importance of mental well-being, especially in a high-stress environment like an airport. Perilla’s commitment to mental health is crucial, given the alarming statistics surrounding first responders; the suicide attempt rate among this group is approximately ten times the national average.

In 2020, the First Responder Hope Line was launched to support first responders dealing with mental health challenges. In 2024, 1,388 individuals accessed this line for assistance, indicating a critical need for mental health support in this population. Former law enforcement officials have emphasized the crucial need to break the stigma associated with mental health issues within the first responder community.

Officer Jessica Bayly and K-9 officer Jon Vazquez from the St. Petersburg Police Department have joined efforts to advocate for mental health resources, drawing from personal experiences of loss related to suicide. Their experiences echo a growing recognition that mental health education and support are essential for maintaining the well-being of those who serve on the front lines of public safety.

To further aid law enforcement personnel, the Sun Coast PBA is collaborating with St. Petersburg College to provide advanced mental health training for officers. The First Training Mental Health Advanced Technical Certificate program is designed to equip law enforcement officers with the skills needed to effectively handle mental health issues within their communities.

The response of first responders following recent hurricanes has highlighted their commitment to service, despite personal hardships. Tampa Mayor Jane Castor honored these first responders with a special night at Raymond James Stadium in recognition of their efforts post-storm. Reports indicate that eleven officers were significantly impacted by Hurricane Helene, with ongoing assessments being conducted for those affected by Hurricane Milton.

Additionally, law enforcement from surrounding communities provided necessary backup and support during these challenging times. Mayor Castor underscored the solidarity and collective effort among Florida’s law enforcement agencies during state emergencies, reinforcing the importance of mutual support among first responders across the area.

Officer Andres Perilla’s devotion to community service and mental health advocacy serves as a beacon of hope and support for both his colleagues and the citizens he serves. His ongoing efforts highlight the need and importance of mental health discussions in the first responder community, aiming to foster a more resilient and supportive environment for all those who protect and serve.

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Author: STAFF HERE TAMPA WRITER

The TAMPA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETampa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tampa, Hillsborough County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Gasparilla Pirate Festival, Florida State Fair, and Tampa Riverfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce and United Way Suncoast, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and technology that power the local economy such as BayCare Health System, Grow Financial Federal Credit Union, and KnowBe4. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERESTPetersburg.com, and HERETallahassee.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.

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