CLARKESVILLE, Ga. — Last week at the Georgia State Capitol, lawmakers recognized Clarkesville Police Officer Terry “J” Palmer Jr. with resolutions adopted by both chambers honoring his bravery during a potentially deadly 2024 incident.
The Georgia House and Senate approved resolutions Feb. 26 commending Palmer for his actions Sept. 7, 2024, at the Cameron Circle Apartments in Clarkesville, where a welfare check escalated into an armed confrontation.
What began as a routine call quickly evolved when a man later described as an Army veteran experiencing mental health distress followed responding deputies with what appeared to be a rifle pointed in their direction. Palmer engaged the individual, ordered him to drop the weapon and was fired upon before deputies returned fire. Authorities later said his actions interrupted what could have been an ambush on law enforcement officers.
The House resolution (HR 1512) and Senate resolution (SR 856) commend Palmer for his “exceptional bravery and decisive actions” that day.
“Officer Palmer’s conduct on that evening exemplified the highest traditions of law enforcement: courage, selflessness, composure under fire, and a profound commitment to the safety of others,” Clarkesville Police Chief Daniel Clouatre said in recommending him for the Award of Valor. “His ability to assess the threat, take decisive action, and protect his fellow officers — at great personal risk — demonstrates valor in its purest form. It is my sincere belief that Officer Palmer’s actions directly saved lives and prevented what could have been a catastrophic outcome.”
Natural Resources Officer Al Crews, President of North Georgia Mountains Lodge 112
Fraternal Order of Police Michael Palmer, Chief Danny Cloutre, Representative Victor
Anderson, Police Officer Terry Palmer Jr., Assistant Chief Ryan Ledford, Mayor Franklin
Brown, Representative Clint Crowe. (photo submitted)
In July 2025, Palmer received the Heroic Action Award from the Georgia State Lodge of the Fraternal Order of Police during a Clarkesville City Council meeting. He has also been honored locally with the Award of Valor and the Award of Lifesaving Action through the Clarkesville Police Department and North Georgia Mountains Lodge 112 of the Fraternal Order of Police.
His recognition now extends beyond Georgia. On April 10, Palmer is scheduled to receive the Founders Award during the National Law Enforcement Hall of Fame induction ceremony in Fort Worth, Texas. He will become the first officer from Georgia to earn the distinction, which honors exceptional leadership, courage and dedication to the profession.
The series of honors highlights a moment that began on a Clarkesville apartment complex walkway and has since drawn recognition from the state Capitol to the national stage.
