CHESAPEAKE, Va. — A Chesapeake man is honored for going above and beyond in keeping kids and traffic safe for almost a decade.
"You’ve got everything from good to bad, to outright strange," Michael Judson said, standing along Battlefield Boulevard.
Judson, a Navy veteran and former postal employee, has a newfound focus in this stage of his life.
"My wife told me to get out of the house and find something to do!" Judson laughed.
For nine years, he’s directed traffic and kept kids safe as a Chesapeake crossing guard at Great Bridge Middle and Southeastern Elementary Schools.
Day in and day out, Judson clocks in and clocks out for his morning and afternoon shifts. But what Michael considers “standard", others find outstanding.
"I’m told I’ve got two of the busy schools," Judson said.
This month, the Virginia Department of Transportation named Judson one of the "Most Outstanding Crossing Guards" for the entire Commonwealth for 2022. He's one of only six in Virginia, and the only one honored from Hampton Roads.
"I don’t know if I'm outstanding," Judson laughed. "I am out-standing in the street," he added.
Judson has never cared much for recognition. Since the surprise announcement, he's been honored by students and staff at Great Bridge middle.
The recognition from VDOT reads:
Michael handles traffic and students with grace. The intersection at Michael’s post can get congested due to a small shopping center, farmers market, and church and he does an exceptional job keeping everyone safe. He makes sure children can safely cross, and reminds drivers of the presence of those children. As soon as families see him, they know that their morning will be a breeze. Michael has been an essential part of the middle school safety team. Michael goes above and beyond by picking up trash, repainting travel lane lines, and doing it all with a smile. His dedication and enthusiasm are inspiring to everyone.