OKALOOSA COUNTY, Fla. — A deputy assigned to a local elementary school has been named the 2025 Lieutenant “Momma” Jo Hunter Spirit of Excellence Award recipient, the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office announced.
Niceville.com Community Partner
Deputy Sheriff Ly “Lily” Vu serves in the Youth Services Division as a School Resource Officer at Southside Elementary School.
According to the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO), Deputy Vu exemplifies service, compassion, and dedication in her daily work with students and staff.
In her role, she is said to focus on building trust and strong relationships with students, remaining attentive to those facing emotional, academic, or personal challenges.
The OCSO said she works to create a safe and supportive environment where students feel recognized and valued.
Niceville.com Community Partner
In October 2024, Deputy Vu was contacted by the Department of Children and Families regarding two young siblings who had reportedly been removed from their home and were awaiting placement.
According to the OCSO, Deputy Vu, a single parent, opened her home to the children outside of any professional obligation, providing care and stability during that time.
The agency said she continued supporting the children throughout 2025, assisting with their education, maintaining family connections, and again opening her home during another period of uncertainty.
Beyond her work at the school, Deputy Vu partnered with LifeVac to raise approximately $24,000 for choking-response devices.
Niceville.com Community Partner
According to the OCSO, the devices have been distributed to agencies, daycares, and nursing homes across the Florida Panhandle, with plans to place them in schools pending approval.
The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office said Deputy Vu’s actions reflect the spirit of the award, which honors compassion, leadership, and service to others.
For her efforts, Deputy Vu was named the 2025 Lieutenant “Momma” Jo Hunter Spirit of Excellence Award recipient.
Niceville.com Community Partner
