Editor's note: Thanks to Ridgefield Police for sharing this story. It is a testament to the local law enforcement's commitment to our community. Officer Jack Palmer's spirit is evident in our town Officers today and every day. We salute and honor Officer Palmer.
We Remember Officer Jack Palmer-End of Watch Sunday, July 31, 1932
On a Sunday afternoon, July 31, 1932, a baseball game was being played at the East Ridge ball field. A regular vendor was selling peanuts, popcorn, Crackerjacks and other assorted items to the fans. Suddenly, another vendor showed up and began giving the regular vendor a considerable amount of competition. The regular vendor and his friends became very irate at the new vendor and demanded he show his credentials. The man refused and dispute began.
A call was put into Ridgefield Police Constable Jack Palmer who was patrolling Main Street on his motorcycle. On a pole, in front of the then Ridgefield Bakery, now Planet Pizza there was a red light. Whenever police assistance was needed a call would be placed to a telephone operator. The telephone operator would then activate the red flashing light so that officers on patrol would know police assistance was needed. Incidentally, the head operator that day was Officer Palmer’s wife, Elizabeth (Lizzie). Little did she know that this would be the last time she would flash the red light for Jack.
It was 83 years ago today that Officer Jack Palmer lost his life protecting and serving the Town of Ridgefield and its residents. Thank you for your service and you have not been forgotten.
Officer Palmer was a Connecticut State Trooper prior to becoming a Constable for the Town of Ridgefield. In 1996 a town street, Palmer Court, was named in his honor.
*Photo courtesy Ridgefield Police