LANSING.  Michigan State Police (MSP) Director Col. Kriste Kibbey Etue is pleased to announce that MC Ofcr. Clifford Lyden of the Brighton Post is the recipient of the 2011 Motor Carrier Officer of the Year Award. Lyden received the award at a special ceremony in Lansing.

The Motor Carrier Officer of the Year award, sponsored by the Michigan Trucking Association since 1985, recognizes the MSP motor carrier officer who symbolizes outstanding professional ethics, dedication to duty and concern for giving back to their community.

"Motor Carrier Officer Lyden was selected for this honor because of his dedication, knowledge and experience in commercial vehicle enforcement and because he exceeds expectations and delivers excellent service to citizens, while on and off the job," said Etue.  "Lyden demonstrates an unwavering dedication to deter and detect criminal activities and to promote safety and security on the state's highways."

He is a previous recipient of the department's Professional Excellence Award for providing first aid to a woman who splashed gasoline in her eyes while pumping gas.

Lyden graduated from the 14th Motor Carrier Recruit School in January 2002, and was assigned to the Brighton Post.

In his off-duty hours, Lyden engages in community service, volunteering in his mother's neighborhood assisting with yard work and snow removal for elderly neighbors. He is also active in Cub Scouts and helps with fundraising at his son's school to support the youth soccer program.