First Pennsylvania Troopers Killed in the Line of Duty
McCalmont Township, Jefferson County, Pennsylvania
Marker Inscription
On September 2, 1906, Privates John F. Henry and Francis A. Zehringer were killed in the line of duty as they attempted to arrest fugitive murderers barricaded in a nearby house. Three other troopers were wounded. Their sacrifice symbolizes the Pa. State Police Call of Honor, which states, in part, "I must serve honestly, faithfully, and if need be, lay down my life as others have done before me, rather than swerve from the path of duty."ย
Erected by Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
The Story
The Pennsylvania State Police, founded in 1905, was among the first state police forces in the country, created to bring law to rural and industrial districts beyond the reach of local sheriffs. Barely a year into its existence, two young troopers were killed and three wounded trying to arrest fugitives barricaded in a nearby house. Their deaths were the force's first in the line of duty and are remembered in its enduring Call of Honor.
Why it matters
The sacrifice marked the dangerous birth of modern state policing in America and the professional ethos of duty that still defines it.
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Related people
- ยท John F. Henry
- ยท Francis A. Zehringer
Themes & tags
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