As the city reflects on its history, the story of an early 20th-century law enforcement officer resurfaces, marking a tragic tale of duty and the ultimate sacrifice. Officer Richard D. 'Dick' Howell, the first City Marshal of North Fort Worth, has been remembered posthumously on the anniversary of his death. On April 11, 1908, during the routine consummation of his duties, Howell reacted to a call regarding a local shooting incident, only to find himself in the direst of situations.

While attempting to apprehend the suspect, Howell was shot in the thigh, a wound that resulted in the amputation of his leg. The Fort Worth Police Department's post chronicled his subsequent health decline, which included a series of strokes linked directly, to the loss of his leg. Despite his grave injury, Howell continued to serve as a sergeant for the North Police Station, adjusting to a new reality with a resilience characteristic of those sworn to protect and serve.

Officer Howell's life, marred by continuous battles against the physical ramifications of his line-of-duty injury, came to an end after he suffered a fourth devastating stroke. "Officer Howell's leg had to be amputated due the gunshot wound and immediately after Howell suffered the first of a series of strokes," highlights the Fort Worth Police Department on social media.

Dick Howell passed away on September 30, 1927, at the age of 59, leaving behind a legacy of courage under fire and an exemplar of the fortitude required by those who pledge their lives to public service. His story, though rooted in the past, serves as an ever-present testament to the weight carried by officers across the nation.