Our law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day. Sadly, some of them don’t make it home to their families. Police Officer Cecil Frank Sledge made the ultimate sacrifice on January 28, 1980, when he lost his life during a “routine” traffic stop. A Memorial Mass was held on the 45th anniversary of his tragic passing.
Family members, friends, members of the NYPD (active and retired), clergy and elected officials gathered at Holy Family Church, 9719 Flatlands Avenue, to show their support to the family and vowed to never forget the sacrifice Sledge made to protect the residents of the 69th Precinct.
The memorial started off with the singing of “Amazing Grace,” followed by a prayer and a Bible reading by Sledge’s young grandson, Anthony, who never had the opportunity to meet his grandfather.
Monsignor David Cassato, an NYPD chaplain who has known the Sledge family for decades, spoke about all the beautiful memories he has of the family, including weddings and baptisms he has performed over the years.
“Memories of your father, your husband, your grandfather, your fellow officer,” he said. “A promise was made on that day never to forget. Today, we hold that promise. We never forget his life and the sad day Cecil gave his life in service to the city to make Canarsie a better place. He gave his life for love of New York, love of Brooklyn, love for his family.”
After Sledge’s two grandchildren (Anthony and Cecilia) brought the gifts up to the altar, the monsignor remarked, “How proud he must be of his grandchildren bringing up the gifts. How proud he must be from his place in Heaven.”
Charles Minch, the deputy chief of Patrol Borough Brooklyn South, made a few remarks. “Forty-five years ago today, Police Officer Cecil Frank Sledge set out to do what he did every day – protect and serve the people of this city.”
“He wasn’t looking for recognition or accolades – he was simply doing his job.”
“What began as a routine traffic stop, a task so seemingly ordinary became a moment that defined his extraordinary bravery and dedication. Although 45 years have passed since we lost Cecil, his memory remains alive in this church, in the hearts of his family, in the bond that we share as an NYPD family.”
Sledge was tragically dragged to his death at that traffic stop on Flatlands Avenue and East 78th Street, a death that should have never happened, as his killer was out on parole and is up for parole again this March, according to PBA First Vice President Daniel Tirelli. “He noticed an individual from a prior robbery and he took action immediately. Unfortunately, he lost his life.”
Tirelli stressed the need to keep cop killers in jail. “That person shouldn’t have another day out on the street.”
Sledge’s widow, Linda, reflected back on her husband’s life, a life of dedication to his job and to his family.
“He was always there to help family, friends and strangers. Dedication was the way he worked,” she said.
She reflected on his great smile, personality and sense of humor – and his love of country music. Although he lived a short life of 35 years, he made an impact on those around him.
“He was someone you met and would not forget,” Linda said. “ Frank’s beliefs were strong: he believed in one God, one country and one family.”
“I’d like to think Frank is looking down this morning and saying, “‘Wow, I did make a difference.’”
“A violent criminal took the life of a good man, one of New York’s Finest. His killer is eligible for parole in March, and my family will continue to fight for justice,” Linda said. She will be appearing before the parole board on February 14th to express her opposition to parole.
She concluded with this sentiment: “Engraved on Frank’s headstone, it reads, ‘Blessed are the peacemakers; for they shall be called the children of God.’”
Indeed, Police Officer Frank Cecil Sledge was a peacemaker. Rest in peace, Officer Sledge.
