OSWEGO, NY – Hundreds of law enforcement officers, active and retired were joined today (Aug. 5) in paying their respects for Oswego City Police Capt. James Comerford.
He died Saturday evening July 31, 2010, at the Samaritan Medical Center in Watertown after becoming ill while camping with friends and family at Southwick Beach State Park.
He was 52.
Members of OPD, University Police from SUNY Oswego, Fulton City Police, State Police, Oswego County Sheriff’s Department, Environmental Conservation Police, Oswego City Fire Department were all in full dress uniform as they solemnly marched to St. Paul’s Church. Oswego Mayor Randy Bateman also took part in the march.
Many of the marchers had tears in their eyes.
The procession made its way from Dain-Cullinan Funeral Home down East Oneida Street past the captain’s house and then made its way up East Fifth Street in front of Trinity Catholic School before ending at the Church.
Two youngsters stood in front of the Catholic school and waved American flags as the officers walked by.
Many city residents along the way stood on their porches and lawns to watch.
One gentleman aptly summed up the emotions of the day in one sentence.
“I’m glad this isn’t something we see every day,†he said.
Captain Comerford was a communicant of St. Paul’s Church and had taught Religious Education at St. Paul’s Academy.
Burial services will be private at the convenience of the family.
Contributions may be made to Trinity Catholic School, 115 E. Fifth St., Oswego, NY 13126.
I used to talk to Captain Commerford about twice a week, over the past six months we had developed a lose friendship, something not enjoyed by many sales people, I can honestly say i will miss him.