"Heroes Live Forever" - the story of Pulaski County (MO) Night Marshal Dotson A. "Pop" Sutton

Dotson A. "Pop"Sutton served for 51 years as a peace officer and died after being struck by a car while on patrol at the age of 80. He is the oldest active officer ever to die in the line of duty.

Night Marshal Dotson A. "Pop" Sutton

McLean, VA (July 29, 2025) - As a night marshal in Pulaski County, Missouri, Dotson A. Sutton protected and befriended thousands of soldiers and their families stationed at Fort Leonard Wood during World War II. He would frequently have his photograph taken with the soldiers and most would come looking for him before being shipped overseas just to say goodbye to the man they affectionately called “Pop.” His horse, Midnight; his pear-handled revolver; and his friendly banter helped to make “Pop” an unforgettable and beloved figure around town. All of this helped to explain why his death on June 25, 1952, hit the residents of Pulaski County so hard. “Pop” died 25 days after being struck by a car while on foot patrol. It was the end of a historic law enforcement career. Dotson “Pop” Sutton had served as a peace officer for 51 years in Missouri, and was 80 years old when he died, making him the oldest active law enforcement officer ever to be killed in the line of duty. Listen to the podcast to learn more: https://open.substack.com/pub/behindbadge/p/heroes-live-forever-the-story-of