An excerpt from the book, “Pensacola’s Finest in Pictures,” available on Amazon
By Mike Simmons
Many older police departments contain generations of officers. Like Blue Bloods, it becomes a family tradition to go into “the business.” Following along those lines, a father, son, and grandson served almost continually on the Pensacola Police Force from 1925 to 1999.
Arrie O. Godwin was hired as an officer in 1925. The next 18 years saw him rise to the rank of Assistant Chief before suffering a stroke in August 1943. He died at his home at 1511 West Gregory Street at the age of 48. He is buried in St. John’s Cemetery.
His son, Alvin O. Godwin, joined the force on June 3, 1946. In 1958, he injured his back and retired as a sergeant. He served for many years as the secretary for the local Masons. He died on February 23, 1988, at the age of 64, and was buried with his father.
Following in the family tradition, Alvin O. Godwin Jr. joined the force in February 1968. After 32 years, he retired in December 1999, having risen to the rank of Inspector – assistant to the chief.
Almost continually for 74 years, A. O. Godwin was a staple around the three stations of the Pensacola Police Department. What a legacy.
Great family, I only knew AO.
Me too. I have only heard about and read about the others.