In Murder & Mayhem in Dayton and the Miami Valley, Sara wrote the story of John William Fogwell, a Beavercreek Constable who was killed as he headed home from Dayton. He had a warrant in his shirt pocket he intended to deliver on the way. His dying declaration identified his killer, William Ritchison. As it turns out, this story had the right audience. Steve Grismer, of Dayton Police History Foundation, read the story and realized Fogwell had never been honored as an officer who died in the line of duty.
Recently we learned he is officially [finally] honored on The Officers Down Memorial Page, just in time for the 151st anniversary of his death, which was October 31st. The next step (which is in process now) will be to submit paperwork to the committee for the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. If approved, his name will be engraved on the marble wall in Washington DC.
Constable J. William Fogwell
End of Watch Thursday, October 31, 1872
Dayton Unknown 
I’m a little late to finding this article but this is really cool. I’d be curious if there has been any updates on the submission to the NLEOM? Thank you for this information!
Hi Vince! Thanks for the kind words. We believe that the documents have been submitted, but unfortunately not in time to be included for 2024’s dedication. Maybe next year!!
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Fogwells application was submitted to the NLEOM and approved. He will finally be recognized in spring of 2026!