Today we are thinking of the family of Police Officer Jamal Mitchell. Officer Mitchell was tragically killed in the line of duty on May 30, 2024. While responding to a call of a shooting to assist an injured victim, he was suddenly ambushed and fatally shot. His loss is still deeply felt, and his commitment to serving and protecting Minneapolis will never be forgotten. Jamal was represented the very best of our department, and of what policing in America can be today.
Today we are thinking of the family of Sergeant David Ward Mack. On November 2, 1986, Sergeant Mack was serving a warrant on Pillsbury Ave when he was shot. He remained in a coma for two years before emerging from it. He ultimately died of complications from his injuries sustained seven years earlier. Sergeant Mack’s commitment to justice and the safety of our community, and his sacrifice will always be remembered.
Today we are thinking of the family of Patrolman George A. Partridge, Jr. Patrolman Partridge was tragically killed on May 26, 1976, while off-duty, after identifying himself as a police officer during an altercation at 26th Ave S and W 26th St. Patrolman Partridge demonstrated the courage and selflessness that define the best of law enforcement.
Today we are thinking of the family of Lieutenant Inno H. Suek. On September 30, 1972, Lieutenant Suek was investigating an armed robbery at a liquor store on Lyndale Ave S when he was shot and killed in the line of duty. His selfless commitment to protecting this city cost him his life, but his legacy remains strong.
Today we are thinking of the family of Officer James E. Hendricks. Officer Hendricks was killed in the line of duty on December 15, 1963. Officer Hendricks was shot and killed on Portland Ave after he and his partner responded to call where a man was threatening a woman with a gun. As Officer Hendricks attempted to disarm the man, when he was tragically shot and killed. His dedication to the city of Minneapolis and his bravery in the face of danger will never be forgotten.
The Minneapolis Police Honor Guard and Color Guard Foundation had the privilege of supporting the Minneapolis Police Cadet Class 2019-1 as it honored the memory of Sergeant John W. O’Neil who was killed in the line of duty on June 7, 1944.
The cadet class wanted to honor Sergeant O’Neil because he died one day after the D-Day invasion and they thought that his sacrifice may not have been adequately recognized at the time due to the understandable focus on the turning point in the war.
The honor ceremony was held at Fort Snelling on December 3. The cadet class began the ceremony with a 5K Memorial Run. As they ran, they held aloft a standard bearing Sergeant O’Neil’s name.
When they returned from the run, the cadet class stood to attention as Officer Steve Laux read aloud the story of Sergeant O’Neil and then took the roll call. Each of the cadets responded as their name was called. Sergeant O’Neil’s name was the last to be called and, after a moment of silence, Taps was played.
For the cadets and the Foundation, it was a deeply meaningful experience to have Sergeant O’Neil’s daughter and grandchildren and a great grandchild and other family members present at the service. They travelled from Portland and Chicago and the metro area to attend. We are grateful to them and extend them our heartfelt best wishes.
The cadet class presented the family a rare photograph of Sergeant O’Neil from 1944 that they had found in their research of him. On behalf of the cadet class, the Foundation presented the family a plaque honoring the memory of Sergeant O’Neil.
After a coffee and conversation hour, the family was invited to watch one of the cadet training scenarios. The evening ended on a warm and positive note with many stories shared and new friends made.