Oldest Active Cop in America

**mavriktu** · 06-05-09, 07:10 AM

New Orleans police officer, believed to be oldest active-duty cop in country, has died

by Brendan McCarthy, The Times-Picayune Thursday June 04, 2009, 1:28 PM

JENNIFER ZDON / THE TIMES-PICAYUNEIn a May 2004 photo, Sgt. Manuel Curry, 57-year member fo the New Orleans Police Department and D-Day Veteran, is about to embark on a trip to France for a D-Day ceremony in which he will receive that country's highest civilian honor.
An 84-year-old New Orleans police officer, believed to be one of the oldest and perhaps the oldest active-duty cops in the country, has died.
Manuel Curry had served the city for more than 63 years, according to a NOPD news release.
Curry, believed to be the longest-serving, active-duty, full-time law enforcement officer in the country, most recently worked in the NOPD's Sixth District in Central City, according to police.
Details of his death were not immediately available.
Curry was known by nearly all residents in Central City. He has been called a true community policeman -- noted as an affable officer who citizens could call to settle even the most minor dispute.
Curry had been honored with countless awards and citations throughout his career. Police officials had previously promoted him to the unique distinction of "sergeant major," a nod to his dedication and years of service.
But his service didn't start with policing. He was a combat medic in World War II who landed on Omaha Beach during the D-Day invasion. Curry died just short of the 65th anniversary of D-Day, which will be marked by ceremonies at the National World War II Museum in Saturday.

**Odd** · 06-05-09, 08:02 AM

Thank you for your service in WWII and your long career in policing, Officer Manuel Curry.

Rest now, you're well earned it.

**Twan007** · 06-05-09, 10:00 AM

Thank you for all of your service Sarge...

may you rest peacefully

**krauty** · 06-05-09, 10:17 AM

That is amazing, RIP SGT

**Jenna** · 06-05-09, 11:01 AM

What an amazing life! Rest in peace.

**lewisipso** · 06-05-09, 12:05 PM

Met him once in passing. Seemed to be an excedllent fellow. RIP.

**Captain America** · 06-05-09, 12:31 PM

Fading Light

Falling Night

Trumpet Call, As The Sun, Sinks In Fright

Sleep In Peace, Comrade Dear

GOD Is Near

Rest in peace , Sgt. Maj. Curry. From the beaches of Normandy to the streets of New Orleans (not much difference) you have done more in your long career to make America a better and safer place to live than any two politicians. Thank you for the care you gave to the youngsters on Omaha beach as bullets wizzed by. Who knows how many lives you saved as a combat medic in World War II. That alone would have earned you my eternally admiration , but you weren't done being a hero. When you get home you serve as a police officer for 57 years as an encore....in New Orleans. Amazing. Greatest generation indeed. My condolences to the family , friends and colleagues but I envy them having known this man. You Sir are my hero.