Why does this stone stand here? This is the Sergeant Richard F. Halloran Stele. It honors a Boston Police Sergeant who died in the line of duty.
Let me tell you about Sergeant Richard F. Halloran. He served the Boston Police Department for five years. Before that, he served with the Medford Police Department for two years.
On November 6, 1975, tragedy struck. Sergeant Halloran was investigating a suspicious vehicle. It was in the early morning hours. The location was near Bremen Street and Neptune Road. He was shot and killed.
Sergeant Halloran was only 33 years old. He was an Army veteran. He left behind a wife and two sons. Both of his sons became firefighters.
The suspect was apprehended. He was the son of another officer. The 22-year-old man was arrested. In 1978, he was sentenced to life without parole. He escaped from a New Hampshire prison three times. Each time, he was captured within days.
Sergeant Halloran is buried at Oak Grove Cemetery in Medford. His name is on several memorials. You can find it on the National Law Enforcement Memorial. It’s on panel 3, east line 7. His name is also on the Hero Wall at Boston Police Headquarters. Finally, it’s on the Massachusetts Law Enforcement Memorial in Downtown Boston.
A Hero Sign also honors him. It’s located in the area of Bennington Street and Neptune Road in East Boston.
The Boston Police Department remembers Sergeant Richard F. Halloran. They honor his service and sacrifice. Reflections from fellow officers show the respect he earned. They remember him yearly on the anniversary of his death.
Retired Boston P.O. Robert E. Anthony Historian said, “Never forgotten by the Officers both Retired and Active of the Boston Police Department.”
Chief (Ret) Steven Marshall wrote, “Thank you for your military and law enforcement service.”
Another reflection reads, “Richy was my best friend… He was a terrific individual. A gentle person with the courage of a lion when needed.”
Sergeant Richard F. Halloran’s memory lives on. This stele stands as a reminder of his service. It also reminds us of his ultimate sacrifice for the city of Boston. Take a moment to reflect on his bravery. Remember the dedication of all law enforcement officers. They risk their lives every day to protect us.