The NYPD has a long history of heroes who have made the ultimate sacrifice to protect and serve their city. But their legacies live on through their children who have followed in their footsteps and are now being promoted within the department. In a recent ceremony held at the police academy in Queens, several officers were given well-deserved promotions, continuing the tradition of their heroic parents.
One of the newly promoted detectives is Francesca Mosomillo, daughter of Anthony Mosomillo, who tragically lost his life in 1998 while attempting to apprehend a drug dealer. Anthony was able to return fire and protect his partner before succumbing to his injuries. Now, Francesca has joined the ranks of the NYPD as a detective, proudly carrying her father’s badge number, 20316. Her promotion is a testament to her hard work and dedication, and her mother, Margaret, couldn’t be happier. She expressed her excitement and joy, saying that she has shed many tears over the years, but these are tears of happiness.
Another officer who has continued his family’s legacy is Lieutenant Conor McDonald. Conor’s father, Steven McDonald, was paralyzed after being shot in the line of duty in 1986. Steven found hope in his son, Conor, and watched with pride as he rose through the ranks of the NYPD. Sadly, Steven passed away in 2017, but not before witnessing Conor’s success. Conor has now been promoted to the rank of captain, a moment that his mother, Patti Ann McDonald, knows would have brought a big smile to his father’s face. Conor’s passion for becoming a police officer was evident from the start, and his promotion is a testament to his hard work and dedication.
The NYPD is not only recognizing the children of fallen heroes but also those who have lost family members recently. Detective First Grade Jonathan Diller was killed in the line of duty, leaving behind his brother-in-law Jonathan McAuley and his partner Veckash Khedna. In a touching tribute on Facebook, McAuley promised to look after Diller’s son as if he were his own. McAuley has now been promoted from police officer to detective specialist, alongside Khedna, in honor of their service and sacrifice. Their promotions serve as a reminder of the bravery and dedication that runs deep within the department.
Officer Rosa Rodriguez, who tragically lost her partner, Detective Dennis Guerra, in a treacherous blaze in 2014, has also received a well-deserved promotion. Rodriguez and Guerra were overcome by smoke during a housing project fire, with Guerra succumbing to his injuries. Rodriguez was hospitalized for weeks but has since been awarded the NYPD Medal of Honor. Her promotion to Detective Second Grade is a testament to her toughness and determination.
In a heartfelt speech, NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban expressed his pride in all those who were promoted. He commended their dedication, bravery, and service to the city, reminding them that they are the reason why the NYPD is considered the greatest police department in the world.
The promotions of these officers not only recognize their individual achievements but also highlight the continued legacy of heroes within the NYPD. They serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who came before them and inspire future generations to uphold the values of honor, bravery, and dedication. The NYPD continues to be a force to be reckoned with, with officers like Francesca Mosomillo, Conor McDonald, Jonathan McAuley, Veckash Khedna, and Rosa Rodriguez leading the way.
