The Nevada Highway Patrol is recognizing two employees for heroic conduct. Meritorious Service awards were given by Colonel Dennis Osborn to Lt. Kevin Larsen and Trooper Mike Gocke. Gocke and Larsen were recognized for “poise, patience, and compassion” for their actions when encountering a “suicide by cop” situation in November 2016. A man pulled up aside a traffic stop being conducted by Gocke, went to his trunk and pulled out a large knife, which he held to his own throat. The man appeared to be extremely distraught and wanted the officers to shoot him. Gocke calmly spoke to him for about five minutes, and he and Larsen were able to subdue the man using non-lethal means. The man was taken to a hospital for treatment. Sgt. Chris Greb was also honored, for his outstanding dedication, and 20 years as a member of the Department of Public Safety Honor Guard.