WARSAW -- Warsaw police officer Terry Polston received a special honor from President George Bush for his dedication to the DARE program. He's been involved in it for nearly 20 years.

But for the last seven years, Polston has been battling lung cancer. He's never smoked a day in his life.

But despite numerous chemotherapy treatments, the man known as "OP" is still working as a DARE officer. It's a job he says he was called to do.

"I call it my $240,000 haircut," Polston said.

Polston has a contagious laugh and heart-warming smile — something principal Melissa Rees says is hard to miss.

"Even the little kids in our school know OP," said Rees.

Seventeen years ago Officer Polston went from the street to the classroom. He teaches kids how to fight the peer pressure of drugs and violence as a DARE officer. It's a program that's touched the lives of students, but now his own.

"To see those smiles and to get the high fives and the hugs. It makes a world of difference," said Polston.

Polston was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2001.

"I was shocked. I was angry at first. And then I asked that question, 'Why me?' And my wonderful wife said, 'Why not?'" said Polston.

Polston has received a number of radiation treatments. And over the past two years, he's had 20 chemotherapy treatments.

"And I know that he's tired. He never shows that. He's always got a smile on and he really feeds off of the energy of the students," said Rees.

Last Friday Polston received an unexpected award for his service and dedication — a signed copy of the DARE proclamation and a letter of encouragement from President George Bush.

"Never in my wildest dreams did I think that somebody that important would do that for me," said Polston.

Polston may be fighting the biggest battle of his life. But he says the battle to keep drugs out of the hands of kids is just as important.

"I think it's what God has called me to do. To give these kids some hope. To give these kids someone that cares, someone that loves them," said Polston.

Polston has another round of chemotherapy Monday. His doctors hope he'll go into remission soon.