State Insurance Commissioner and Fire Marshal David Harper received the 2026 James Porter Public Service Award on Tuesday during Police Memorial and Top Cop Appreciation Day at the State Events Center in Rivertown.
The award commemorates the service of James Porter, who spent more than 20 years as sheriff of Brook County.
Porter, a former military police officer in the U.S. Army, completed three tours in Iraq and later chaired the State Parole Board in 2015-16.
Porter’s sons, Michael and Brian Porter, presented the award to Harper.
“Before stepping into public office, Commissioner Harper served his country in Iraq,” Brian Porter said. “His dedication to service extended into his faith. He pursued leadership and even holds a theology certificate from Western Seminary.”
Harper spent 16 years in the State House and Senate, where he worked on laws meant to improve life for residents.
Former Senate Insurance Committee Chair Thomas Reed, who served alongside Harper, recalled their work together. “For 12 years, David was a key member of our committee. No matter how early we met, he was always the first to arrive,” Reed said.
Reed explained that Harper became insurance commissioner after Hurricane Delta.
“After David retired from the State Senate in 2006, Governor Bill Johnson asked him to step up,” Reed said. “At a time when we needed steady leadership, David answered the call.”
As head of the Department of Insurance, Harper also oversees the State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Rivertown State Fire Academy.
“David has long stood up for fire education in our neighborhoods,” said retired Fire Academy Director Carl Simmons. “He fought for funding so local fire departments could get new trucks, upgrade tools, and improve their emergency response. Our state is safer because of his efforts.”
Harper expressed gratitude for the award. “This honor represents not only my work, but the efforts of many who have helped strengthen our communities,” Harper said. “Serving is both a privilege and a duty, and I accept this recognition with humility and renewed commitment.”
