Twenty-one years ago today, Chief of Police (Retired) Michael Francis Dunn died while vacationing in Florida. Chief Dunn served the residents of West Goshen Township from 1976 to 1988. He was hired by the West Goshen Board of Supervisors due to his commitment to education, training, and professionalism. Dunn exhibited a positive attitude, was a good listener, and paid meticulous attention to detail.
Chief Dunn was born in Brooklyn, New York on 1 November 1933. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree from St. John’s University and a Master’s Degree from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. Dunn began his law enforcement career with the New York City Police Department in 1955. His first ten years were spent patrolling the borough of Queens. Dunn spent the next ten years doing background checks on new recruits. He retired from NYPD as a Sergeant in 1975.
After being hired by West Goshen, Chief Dunn graduated from the inaugural law enforcement officer class of the Delaware County Municipal Police Academy. West Goshen Officer (and future legend) Joe Daniels was also a class member.
In 1987, Chief Dunn received a Law Enforcement Commendation Award from the Sons of the American Revolution. This award honored Dunn for “serving with distinction and devotion.”
After leaving West Goshen due to health issues, Chief Dunn continued training and consulting with police departments across the country.
Chief Dunn was buried with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery. His 40-year military career began on 4 February 1953 as a St. John’s University student. Dunn and 14 others were sworn into the 339th Transportation Port Battalion of the United States Army Reserve (USAR). The 339th was the first USAR unit ever formed in a New York City school. Dunn retired as a Military Police Captain, USAR, in 1993.
Chief Dunn, thank you for your service to West Goshen Township and the United States of America.