February 10, 2021
We would like to honor the Maryland State Police during the month of February in recognition of Black History Month. We celebrate the accomplishments of our great leaders in the department, current and retired. We recognize the first African American Maryland State Trooper, Milton Taylor, who achieved the rank of Captain before his retirement.
We will always remember all our MSP Fallen Heroes, that gave their life and paid the ultimate sacrifice. It is not how they died, but how they lived and made a difference in our lives and society.
In remembrance of Black History Month, we pause to honor our fallen African American Heroes.
Tpr. Mart Hudson. EOW 6/16/1975
Tpr. Milton Purnell Jr. EOW 12/17/1975
Tfc. Gregg Presbury Sr. EOW 5/29/1977
Tpr. Gary Wade EOW 1/30/1982
Tpr. Raymond Armstead Jr EOW 3/25/1998
Cpl. Edward Toatley. EOW 10/30/2000
Tfc. Wesley Brown. EOW 6/11/2010
Tfc. Shaft Hunter EOW 5/11/20
These men and all our 46 fallen heroes will always be remembered. May God Bless their families today and always. We remember these heroes that will live forever in our hearts.
Sarah “Jeannie” Mastronardi
President
Maryland State Police Alumni Association
As I mentioned in my earlier email message about Black History Month, our video presentation is now complete and available at the attached link. Although we could not meet in person to commemorate Black History Month, it is important that we recognize this time and reflect on African American history within the Maryland Department of State Police. I urge you to watch the video. We will resume our annual in-person observance as soon as COVID precautions are lifted.
Colonel Woodrow W. Jones III
Superintendent
Maryland Department of State Police
