In a heartfelt ceremony held on Saturday, a street in Queens was renamed in honor of NYPD Lieutenant Henry Schmiemann, who was tragically shot and killed during a robbery while walking to work 50 years ago. The event also marked a significant moment for his grandson, Henry Schmiemann, who received a shield bearing his grandfather’s badge number.
Lt. Henry Schmiemann lost his life on June 20, 1974, at the intersection of Penelope Avenue and 82nd Place, near his residence in Queens. The emotional occasion saw his grandson, residing in the same house where his grandfather once lived, express his gratitude for the opportunity to carry on his legacy. Wearing his grandfather’s shield number, Henry Schmiemann acknowledged the weight of the responsibility bestowed upon him, recognizing the immense significance of the NYPD.
Peter Schmiemann, the uncle of the younger Henry, expressed his pride in his nephew’s decision to honor their father by wearing his badge number. Despite their father’s untimely departure, Peter Schmiemann believes that his nephew will receive guidance and support from their father as he carries out his duties.
While the ceremony celebrated the memory of Lt. Henry Schmiemann, it also served as a reminder of the ongoing pursuit of justice. The perpetrator of the crime, John Smith, is currently serving a life sentence at Wende Correctional Facility in Erie County. However, online state records indicate that Smith has a parole hearing scheduled for August.
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What impact do you think renaming a street in honor of a fallen officer has on the community and the memory of the individual?