BPD Remembers: On April 2, 1940, Officer Patrick C. Gannon died in the line of duty after exposure to and the inhalation of deadly, toxic fumes which poisoned him while working strike duty.
A 21-year veteran of the department, Officer Gannon was 46 years old at the time of his death. Making his passing ever more tragic and disheartening is the fact that he was survived by and left behind his wife and four daughters.
Officer Gannon was laid to rest at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Brookline. His name is forever imprinted on the National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington D.C. on Panel 60, West Line 15. His name can also be seen on the BPD’s Hero Wall at Boston Police Headquarters and the Massachusetts State Law Enforcement Memorial located on the lawn of the Massachusetts State House in Boston.
In Boston, a Hero Sign has been placed in his honor in the area of Thompson Square in Charlestown. The sign is to forever honor the memory of a man who gave his life in service to his city. If you ever find yourself in the area and you happen to see his Hero Sign, kindly take a moment to honor and acknowledge the service and sacrifice of a brave man who died protecting and serving his city.