AFSCME Honors Officer Linehan with Memorial Recognition After 76 Years

Remembering a Fallen Officer: A 76-Year-Old Story Unveiled

In the heart of Washington, D.C., National Law Enforcement Week serves as a poignant occasion to commemorate the brave officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Uniformed officers from across the nation gather for ceremonies that underscore the perils faced by those sworn to protect public safety.

The week features events such as a candlelight vigil and wreath-laying at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial, where the sacrifices of officers are solemnly honored. Among this year's commemorations, a long-overlooked hero finally receives recognition.

AFSCME members from Council 4 in Connecticut are honoring Sgt. Frank Linehan, a New London officer who died in 1950. His name will be engraved on the memorial and read during the vigil on May 13, marking his long-awaited recognition.

Linehan suffered a cerebral hemorrhage on November 14, 1950, while rushing through a crowd to aid a fainted woman. His sacrifice went unrecognized for decades due to the lack of a formal system for documenting such deaths at the time.

Thanks to the diligent efforts of an AFSCME Local 724 member, Linehan's story was uncovered and verified, leading to his official acknowledgment as a line-of-duty death. Capt. Todd Bergeson of the New London Police Department remarked, “No matter how much time passes, we’re not going to forget one of our own.”

This year, 363 new names join the memorial, including 109 officers who died in 2025. National Law Enforcement Week serves as a reminder of the dedication of officers who make the ultimate sacrifice. AFSCME President Lee Saunders emphasized the importance of supporting these public service workers with proper training and resources.

Bergeson's investigation into Linehan's story began with a public inquiry and spanned through cemetery archives, personnel records, and historic news clippings. His persistent efforts, supported by descendants and retired officers, ensured that Linehan's legacy is recognized.

AFSCME's commitment to law enforcement extends beyond this week, advocating for better pay, benefits, and safety for officers. Recent initiatives include protests against layoffs in New York and supporting legislation like the Providing Child Care for Police Officers Act.

Established in 1962, National Police Week honors officers who have died in the line of duty. Bergeson hopes that Linehan's posthumous recognition will inspire others to seek justice for forgotten heroes. “It’s still possible to get it done,” he said. “Don’t ever give up.”