In the fall of 1918, Dayton Police Patrolman Edward M. Hennessey contracted the early 20th century’s deadliest global virus—the Spanish Influenza—in the line of duty.

In addition to their regular duties, during the global pandemic, Dayton Police officers were also assigned to operating ambulances, removing corpses, closing saloons that violated health orders, and preventing crowd gatherings. As a result, many became ill, and six of them died. It was estimated that from early 1918 through early 1920 the Spanish Flu killed approximately 675,000 Americans.

Edward died of complications from the Spanish Influenza on October 12th, 1918.

Patrolman Hennessey was 34 years old at the time of his death, and had served with the Dayton Police Department for six and a half years. He was survived by his wife, daughter, father, and sister.

Edward was known for having established an excellent service record during his time with the department. Prior to joining the force he had worked for N.C.R.