NASBLA Names Senior Trooper Jacob Manning the 2025 National Boating Officer of the Year
The National Boating Officer of the Year award recognizes a law enforcement officer who has made outstanding contributions to boating safety through enforcement and exemplary service to their agency or state in any area of recreational boating safety.
Senior Trooper Manning of ALEA’s Department of Public Safety Marine Patrol Division has consistently demonstrated excellence since he first pinned on his badge. From routine patrols to life-saving rescues, his work reflects a deep commitment to protecting lives and promoting responsible boating behavior.
In 2024, Manning responded to a capsized vessel in rough conditions on Perdido Bay. Acting swiftly with his partner, he rescued four individuals from the water — an event captured on body-worn camera and recognized with ALEA Secretary’s Life Saving Award. His bravery and effectiveness also earned him co-recipient recognition as Trooper of the Year from the Alabama State Trooper Association.
Manning’s impact extends beyond emergency response. Over the past year, he conducted 507 vessel inspections, issued 268 citations and 505 warnings, and made 24 boating under the influence (BUI) arrests — accounting for more than one-third of the state’s total BUI arrests in 2024. Over three years, he has removed 60 impaired operators from Alabama waters, significantly enhancing safety statewide.
In addition to enforcement, Manning is a dedicated public educator. He contributes more than 200 hours annually to outreach and training, including school presentations, community events, and mentoring fellow officers. He supports new troopers through NASBLA’s BUI training and ALEA’s Basic River Operations Course and fosters strong partnerships with livery operators and federal agencies. His professionalism was further recognized when he represented ALEA at the 60th Presidential Inauguration.
The National Association of State Boating Law Administrators congratulates Senior Trooper Jacob Manning on receiving the 2025 National Boating Officer of the Year award in recognition of his dedication, leadership, and impact on recreational boating safety. To learn more about NASBLA’s awards program, visit www.nasbla.org/awards.
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