Blue Knight Celebration

Every year, the Knights of Columbus pays tribute to Police and Firefighter personnel with a Blue Mass and awards ceremony, celebrating the distinguished “Blue Knight.”

This time-honored tradition, dating back to 1934, was initiated by Catholic Priest Thomas Dade in Washington D.C. Witnessing approximately 1,100 police and firefighters in their blue uniforms marching into St. Patrick’s Catholic Church marked the inaugural Blue Mass on September 29th, 1934.

Representation by Todos Santos Assembly- 2286

The City of Concord is represented by the Todos Santos Assembly- 2286 of the Knights of Columbus, which includes:

Council 13195 – Queen of All Saints

Concord Council 6038 – St. Agnes and St. Bonaventure

Council 13179 - St. Francis of Assisi

Martinez Council 6039

Bishop Begin Council 7144

These councils annually honor a “Blue Knight” Officer/Firefighter from Concord PD, Clayton PD, Martinez PD, The California Highway Patrol Martinez Office, The Contra Costa County Sheriff, and Contra Costa County Fire.

Recognition of Sergeant Shawn Phalen

We’re proud to recognize Sergeant Shawn Phalen for receiving the 2025 Blue Knight Award.

Sgt. Phalen joined CPD in 1998 and over the past 27 years has served in many roles, including K9 Officer, Field Training Officer, Major Crimes Detective, and now our Traffic Sergeant. In his current assignment, he leads community safety efforts like the Bike Rodeo, Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day, and major city events such as the Christmas Tree Lighting and Concord Pavilion concerts.

He holds a master’s degree, an Advanced POST Certificate, and is a respected leader on the CPOA Board.

Please join us in congratulating Sgt. Phalen on this well-deserved honor!

Past Concord Police Blue Knight Honorees

  • 2024 - Corporal Jesse Hunt
  • 2023 - Ed Montero
  • 2022 - Officer Lee Lawrence
  • 2017 - Officer Steve Harn
  • 2016 - Officer Dan Golinveaux
  • 2014 - Detective Tom Parodi
  • 2011 - Corporal Kerry Cerletti
  • 2009 - Officer Samuel Figueroa
  • 2008 - Corporal Sam Staten
  • 2007 - Corporal Adam Hart
  • 2006 - Corporal Bill Roche
  • 2005 - Detective Ollie Sansen
  • 2004 - Officer Craig Oelrich
  • 2003 - Officer Joe Higby
  • 2002 - Officer Don Lawson
  • 2001 - Officer Steve Dyer
  • 2000 - Officer Phil Pettus
  • 1999 - Officer Danny Moore
  • 1998 - Officer Judy Moore
  • 1997 - Officer Robert Malm