WINSTON-SALEM – Almost exactly 17 months ago, Police Sgt. Howard Plouff was shot while attempting to restore order at the Red Rooster bar in Winston-Salem.

He died later that night – Feb. 23, 2007.

But Thursday, Plouff's fellow officers honored him as Winston-Salem's 2007 officer of the year, ensuring that his 17-year career would never be forgotten.

Dozens of officers gathered outside the Winston-Salem Public Safety Center for the ceremony.

Plouff's widow was presented with the award, along with a flag that flew over Washington, D.C., in honor of her husband the day he was killed.

"Howard served with courage, loyalty, integrity, dedication and honor," Joyce Plouff said. "It is my hope to continue to honor Howard -- that we respect and honor all law enforcement who serve with loyalty, courage and honor."

During the ceremony, officers shared their favorite stories about working with the man, who they called a tremendous public servant.

"Howard was definitely a prankster. He loved to play jokes on everyone no matter what rank it was," Cpl. T.C. Hart said. "The jokes ranged from getting several officers involved in a prank to typing up fake memos about being transferred."

Officer J.C. Renew said he'll always remember Plouff's quick wit.

"He was always one that had a quick, biting comment, but he was also a good friend," Renew said.

Chief Scott Cunningham said it's more than Plouff's actions on Feb. 23, 2007, that qualify him as the 2007 officer of the year.

"Throughout his 17 years with the police department, he set the tone for officers," Cunningham said. "He served the community. He tried to make the lives better for his people and for the citizens. And that night, that's exactly what he was doing."

A Winston-Salem State University student -- Keith Antoine Carter -- was charged in the murder.