The award was presented at a ceremony held at the Kokomo Noon Kiwanis Club on behalf of Governor Mitch Daniels. "It was a true honor to present this award to Dean and to make known all of his contributions to our city, state, and country," said Rep. Karickhoff. "He is a great example of what all Hoosiers should strive to be." Hockney honorably served nine years in the United States Air Force. He received many awards, including the NATO Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Service Medal, the Humanitarian Service Medal and the Presidential Sports Award from President Bill Clinton. He was the former Managing Editor and Sports Editor for the Kokomo Perspective and was awarded the National Writing Award from the United States Basketball Writers Association. Hockney is the author of a historic book, which chronicles the history of the Kokomo High School basketball team called, Kats with a K. In 2003, he was named one of the top five people of the year in Howard County. "This is a great honor and I am truly appreciative of Representative Karickhoff and Governor Daniels for recognizing those of us who went overseas as civilians working with our military," said Hockney. "We never expect anything in return, so it is nice when our efforts are recognized." While supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom, Hockney was inducted into the Loyal Order of the Spur by the U.S. Army 1st Calvary Division, 3rd Brigade Combat Team and was awarded many certificates of appreciation and coins of excellence. "It is great to know there are people like Dean Hockney living in our community," said Rep. Karickhoff. "He exemplifies all the attributes of a true hometown hero and it was a pleasure to see him honored and to receive recognition for all he has done to benefit our community and state."
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