Former AGFC director awarded inaugural Arkansas Medal of Freedom

LITTLE ROCK — Gov. Sarah Sanders took time during her annual State of the State address at a joint session of the Arkansas Legislature Tuesday to recognize Dallas County Sheriff Mike Knoedl as the recipient of the first Arkansas Medal of Freedom. Knoedl previously served as director of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, culminating a 31-year career with the agency.

The Arkansas Medal of Freedom was created by Sanders to recognize and honor Arkansans who have “distinguished themselves in service to the state and fellow citizens.”

Sanders referenced a tragic shooting that took place June 21,2024, outside of a Fordyce supermarket when a gunman opened fire on customers and bystanders in the store and its parking lot. Four people were killed and nine others were injured before the incident was resolved.

“Those on the scene know that it could have been many, many more if not for the action of brave heroes like Dallas County Sheriff Mike Knoedl,” Sanders said. “Within minutes after the first shots were fired, Mike and his officers were on the scene returning fire to the gunman, distracting him and allowing victims to find cover and escape.”

Sanders explained that it was not only actions in the heat of the moment that expressed Knoedl’s character, but the fast response to offer aid to the many victims involved in the shooting.

“Immediately after they apprehended the gunman, Knoedl organized transportation and aid for the wounded, and in the days and weeks after he helped raise tens of thousands of dollars for the victims and their families,” Sanders said. “I cannot think of a better person to receive the first Medal of Freedom than Sheriff Knoedl.”

Knoedl says he’s humbled and honored to be the first recipient of the award, and shares all credit with the people of his community.

“I had no idea this was coming, and there were a lot of individuals involved in what happened that day,” Knoedl said. “I was overwhelmed by the support to the victims and their families. People stepped up and raised almost $80,000 to help them through what was the most difficult time in their lives.”

Knoedl also credited Gov. Sanders for her help during the recovery.

“She came down here as soon as she could and offered support every step of the way,” Knoedl said. “We’ll never forget the victims and the people who lost their loved ones. We’re a tight community. That community is slowly recovering and that’s what’s important to me.”

Knoedl began his AGFC career in 1985 as a Perry County wildlife officer. In 2008, he became chief of the Enforcement Division, a position he held until 2011 when he assumed the role of Deputy Director, then Director from 2012-2016.

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CUTLINES:

SANDERS AND KNOEDL IN FRONT OF STATE SEAL
Gov. Sarah Sanders awarded Dallas County Sheriff Mike Knoedl the first Arkansas Medal of Freedom at her State of the State address Tuesday. Photo Courtesy Gov. Sanders Office.

SANDERS AND KNOEDL AT FIREPLACE
Sanders thanked Knoedl for his example of selfless service at a special meeting after the conclusion of her address to the 95th General Assembly. Photo Courtesy Gov. Sanders Office.