From the Register's Erika I. Ritchie:
The character, qualities and leadership skills that now make sheriff's Lt. Steve Bernardi "America's Top Cop" were already there when he started in law enforcement 33 years ago.
Acting Sheriff Jack Anderson – who worked for Bernardi in San Clemente – remembers how his onetime sergeant led by example rather than words.
Anderson got a call to take a collision report at a nearby gas station. When he arrived, Bernardi was standing near a car he'd hit. There was no damage and the car's driver didn't want a report, but Bernardi insisted Anderson take the report.
"He set the example," said Anderson. "No matter how miniscule something may be, he always does the right thing. Integrity should lead in decisions. He doesn't just say it, he does it. I'm not surprised this honor was bestowed on Steve."
Read it all right here.