Label
RIA: Gerald Gill
Title
Recognizing Retired Sgt at Arms Gerald Gill for his heroic efforts during his years as a Patrol Officer.
Summary
WHEREAS, Officer Gerald R. Gill has served, with distinction, as a Patrolman with the City of Toledo Police Department, since April 1, 1968, and has served fourteen years as Sergeant at Arms for Toledo City Council; and
WHEREAS, Jerry’s tenure with the city included two very different experiences, as an Officer of TPD, and as Sergeant at Arms for Toledo City Council. Jerry’s duties as Sergeant At Arms included a slightly less stressful tour of duty. Jerry diligently spent countless hours in meetings protecting the very lives of our illustrious City Council members, usually from each other; and
WHEREAS, the numerous notorious adventures of Gerald Gill, including driving at breakneck speeds on sidewalks and through interstate medians, as well as observing local “businesswomen” working, in a parked car, within our alleys, have been chronicled, and remain fond memories of many who had the privilege of working alongside such an amazing guy. Jerry consistently exhibited his absolute “Love and Pride” of being an Officer with the Toledo Police Department, however, the Council overlooked one very significant event that warrants special recognition; and
WHEREAS before enjoying the cushy life of Council’s Sergeant at Arms, Jerry Gill spent 26 years working in field operations and, in many ways, Jerry’s service remained consistent- marked by conscientiousness, selflessness, and bravery. His professionalism was notably recognized with a Commendation for Exceptional Performance for an incident that occurred in August of 1982; and
WHEREAS on August 6, 1982, while on duty, Jerry voluntarily responded to a report of an attempted suicide occurring at the Martin Luther King Bridge. Although he was not directly dispatched to the incident, Jerry selflessly climbed over the bridge railing and held the individual in place until he and his fellow officers could rescue the man to safety. Jerry’s courageous and selfless actions that night ultimately saved a man’s life. It was never a surprise to any of us that Jerry prioritized the well-being of others above his own.
NOW, THEREFORE, Be it resolved by the Council of the City of Toledo:
SECTION 1. Officer Gerald R. Gill is hereby deserving of commendation for his many years of meritorious and often notorious public service and is hereby officially recognized for his selfless service and exceptional performance for both the citizens and the Council of the City of Toledo.
SECTION 2. That this Resolution shall take effect and be in force from and after the earliest period allowed by law.
Adopted: December 18, 2024: yeas 11, nays 0.
Attest:
Julie A. Gibbons Carrie Hartman
Clerk of Council President of Council
Approved: December 19, 2024
Wade Kapszukiewicz
Mayor