As one who worked with OC CXX for many years, I can think of few if any more able, humane and competent officers. This honour - which he will be entirely aware is a recognition of the hard work of many individuals as well as of his outstanding leadership qualities - is not something he would have sought out for himself.
It should be no surprise that angry and bereaved families have trouble maintaining perspective in such circumstances - I probably wouldn't either - but the press would do better to ask the people who really know what went on behined the scenes after this terrible tragedy, and not to attempt to impugn the reputaion of this fine officer.