Officer Richard E. Hart Day

On this day in 1982, the Firestone Police Department's own Deputy Marshal Richard E. Hart was tragically killed in the line of duty.  Officer Hart was a beloved husband, father and public servant who was with the Firestone Police Department for five years before giving the ultimate sacrifice.

Firestone Town Marshall Tony Onorato, Sr. recruited Rick to serve as a part-time officer with the Firestone Police Department in 1977 based on his stellar reputation as a soldier and police officer in Duncan, Oklahoma. Officer Hart was an Ohio native and Vietnam veteran, who came to know and love the small, close-knit Town of Firestone when it became home to him and his family over 40 years ago.

Retired Police Chief Steve Modrell and current Police Chief David L. Montgomery work relentlessly to recognize Deputy Town Marshal Richard Hart nationally for his accomplishment and dedication to the community of Firestone.  Officer Hart's name was added to the Bittersweet Park pavers at the Weld County Fallen Officer Memorial, to pavers at the Colorado State Patrol Academy at Camp George West, the Colorado Law Enforcement Memorial and the National Washington D.C. Fallen Officer Memorial Wall.  In 2002, the Town of Firestone dedicated Hart Park at 4th & Jackson, and in 2012 the park was updated and rededicated, for a new generation of Firestone families to reflect on the lasting legacy of a man who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting our community.

The Firestone community remembers the courage, humility and sacrifice of Officer Hart, giving purpose to his sacrifice and creating a legacy for our fallen hero.  

Visit here, for more information on Officer Hart.