On a solemn reminder from the past, the Milwaukee Police Department paid homage to one of their own who was taken tragically in an event shrouded not in mystery, but in the stark black-and-white of a line-of-duty death. According to a recent Facebook post by the Milwaukee Police Department, they made a point to remember the sacrifice of Patrolman Dennis O'Bradovich, who was killed on August 17, 1975, during a violent robbery.
On the day of the incident, the Milwaukee Police Department shared that Officer O'Bradovich, who was off duty, was at Bryant’s Cocktail Lounge with another officer and two women when armed robbers entered. He bravely tried to stop the robbery but was shot several times. Before dying from his injuries, he managed to wound one of the robbers. On the anniversary of his death, the department honored his courage and reminded everyone that bravery doesn’t end when the uniform comes off.
In the immediate aftermath of the shootout, the police rapidly mobilized, successfully apprehending two suspects as they fled from the establishment. The subsequent investigation led to the arrest of additional accomplices, including a 17-year-old girl who was believed to have served as the getaway driver in the crime, as reported by the Milwaukee Police Department.
At the young age of 30 and with a dedication of six years to law enforcement, Patrolman Dennis O'Bradovich's end came much too soon. Each year, dictated by tradition and respect, the Milwaukee Police Department ensures that the courage of officers like O'Bradovich are never forgotten, nor the context in which they served and the ultimate price they paid.
