"Heroes Live Forever" - the story of New York City Police Officer Joseph P. McCormack

He was a decorated member of the NYPD's elite Emergency Service Unit who was shot and killed responding to a domestic disturbance in the Bronx. His family has honored him greatly by their good works.

Officer Joseph P. McCormack, NYPD ESU

McLean, VA (January 20, 2026) - Joseph P. McCormack, a 15-year veteran of the New York City Police Department, was a devoted husband, father, and a decorated officer who served in the NYPD’s elite Emergency Service Unit (ESU). Tragically, he was shot and killed on September 29, 1983, by an emotionally disturbed man who had barricaded himself inside a home after being denied access to his young son. Officers attempted to negotiate with the man and de-escalate the situation, but the man suddenly burst out a rear door and opened fire. The shotgun blast struck Officer McCormack under his armpit—an area not protected by his bullet-resistant vest. His family has honored Joe’s legacy with their good works. His wife, Sue, founded Survivors of the Shield, and became a leading advocate for police survivors. Joe’s two sons, Joseph Jr. and Andrew, followed in their father’s footsteps and became proud members of the NYPD’s ESU. And Joe’s daughter, Jessica, became a pediatric nurse, just like her father predicted when she was a little girl. Colleagues called him “the best of the best” and remember “his dedication, his fearlessness, his love of the job.”

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