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Thursday, May 13, 2010

Who Is Nathan Ogden and Why Does He Matter?

In 1771, Northampton County Deputy Sheriff Nathan Ogden was killed while attempting to execute an arrest warrant. He is the first known law enforcement officer to make the ultimate sacrifice for his community in America. In his memory, the Northampton County Chiefs of Police Association annually honors a police officer who distinguishes himself and his profession.

This year's recipient is Bethlehem Township Police Captain George J. Boksan, a thirty-year veteran. Chiefs from around the County applauded Wednesday afternoon as Boksan was presented a trophy that depicts a police officer holding a child in his arms. This ceremony was conducted at Northampton County's 911 Communication Center. On display was a long rifle from that period.

"I didn't expect to see you here," joked Roy Seiple, who chairs the chiefs association. "We both graduated from college together with [District Attorney] John Morganelli. Two out of three's not bad."

Captain Boksan is married and has a son who will attend grad school at PSU this Fall. Boksan and son are both graduates of Moravian College. In 1998, during a public meeting, he used an AED device to revive a heart attack victim. He has worked as patrolman, detective and Captain.

The presentation this year, and for the last eight years, is made during National Police Week. William Hillanbrand, a Northampton County Emergency Management Planner, pays for the trophy every year out of his own pocket. His father and grandfather were cops.

There's a related story in The Express Times.
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4 comments:

  1. AnonymousMay 13, 2010 at 10:10 AM

    1771? Norco had a sheriff's department then?

    ReplyDelete
  2. Bernie O'HareMay 13, 2010 at 10:13 AM

    Yep. There was a Sheriff back then. I've seen Ogden referred to as a Lieutenant. NC was formed back in 1752 and originally included counties like Lehigh Monroe and even Luzerne.

    ReplyDelete
  3. MickeyMay 16, 2010 at 8:11 PM

    His name is George Boksan, not Thomas Boksan. And he deserves this award.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Bernie O'HareMay 16, 2010 at 8:29 PM

    Mickey,

    Thank you for pointing out this mistake. I checked the packet and you are right. I am somewhat embarrassed by my error and am thankful you caught it.

    ReplyDelete

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