The Wandering Disciple

The thin blue line is honored here in the fallen officer’s memorial at the Tampa Police Museum. This wall of heroes reminds us of the ultimate sacrifice these officers made while protecting the city of Tampa. We owe thanks to these brave officers each and every day as they died in the line of duty protecting that thin blue line. (Photo: May 4, 2019)

Tampa, Florida: Law enforcement in Tampa dates back over 160 years. From the birth of the city in 1855 and the creation of a City Marshall to the high tech police force of today with over 1,000 officers and over 300 civilians, the city of Tampa has a rich history of law enforcement. The story of the TPD and its history is told at the Tampa Police Museum. The mission of the Tampa Police Museum is two fold. One is to tell the history of the police department from incorporation to present day. There are displays that showcase the changes of technology throughout the years as well as uniforms and tools that were used by officers. While much of the exhibits highlights the TPD, there are also items from law enforcement agencies around the world including a collection of badges and patrol hats. The second mission of the Tampa Police Museum is to honor the city’s fallen officers. Since the inception of the department, 31 officers have lost their lives in the line of duty protectin...