Patrolman Robert J. Gallant

Robert J. Gallant

Patrolman Robert Gallant was struck and killed by a drunk driver while at the scene of a domestic disturbance.

He was interviewing the female participant, and both of them had begun to walk back toward the house. As they did so, Patrolman Gallant heard an approaching vehicle. He turned around in time to see that the vehicle was about to strike the two, and he pushed the female out of harm's way. The vehicle struck him, causing fatal injuries.

The 20-year-driver was apprehended the next day. He was convicted of manslaughter, leaving the scene of an accident, and driving with a revoked license, and sentenced to four years.

Patrolman Gallant was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions in saving the life of the woman.

He had only been with the Berwick Police Department for 11 months. He was survived by his mother.