The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Division of Law Enforcement is hosting a graveside memorial ceremony in honor of Samuel S. Taylor, the first environmental officer killed in the line of duty in New York State. Taylor, a game protector (now called environmental conservation officers), was fatally shot at the age of 38 on April 5, 1914, after attempting to apprehend a duck hunter while patrolling the banks of the Mohawk River. 

In recognition of Game Protector Taylor’s unwavering sacrifice, DEC created an award in his honor.  Started in the 1990s, DEC awards environmental conservation officers who, by a conspicuous act of valor, courage, integrity, resourcefulness and bravery in the protection of natural resource or public safety, have clearly set themselves apart in performing their duties.

In addition to this honor, Game Protector Taylor’s name will finally be added to the fallen officer’s memorial wall in Albany during the Police Officers Remembrance Ceremony on May 6, 100 years after his passing. This distinction was previously denied, however DEC’s Division of Law Enforcement fought persistently for this well-deserved tribute.

WHAT:

Graveside memorial ceremony and reception in honor of Fallen Game Protector Samuel S. Taylor

WHO:            

Major D. Scott Florence, DEC Division of Law Enforcement Acting Director

DEC Deputy Commissioner Chris Walsh

DEC regional law enforcement captains

New York State Senator David Valesky (D-Oneida)

New York State Assemblyman Bill Magee (D-Nelson)

Past Samuel Taylor award recipients

Local officers

WHEN:

April 9, 2014 at noon

WHERE:

Graveside at Woodlawn Cemetery, Hamilton, NY

Reception to follow at White Eagle Conference Center

Attached: Map of the cemetery and directions to the reception