Newport Beach police name year’s top officer

The Newport Beach Police Department’s 2008 Officer of the Year is David Moon, officials announced at an awards ceremony this morning.

For 28 years, Moon has gathered invaluable experience and trained younger officers, said Chief John Klein. Moon has earned the Award of Merit three times and added his fourth and fifth decorations this morning.

As Klein praised him, Moon stood stiff, eyes to the ground, apparently humbled at all the accolades.

“I’m honored,” he said. “It hits you right in the gut.”

Several other officers were recognized at the 37th annual Police Appreciation Breakfast at the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach hotel.

JOSEPH SERNA may be reached at (714) 966-4619 or at joseph.serna@latimes.com.