Polson Police Department honors fallen chief

Members of the Polson Police Department traveled to Washington, D.C., last week to participate in National Police Week 2025, where they honored Polson’s first chief of police, John Emory Hern, who died in the line of duty more than a century ago.

Chief George Simpson, Sergeant Kyle Cooper and clerk Joan Hart represented Polson at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial ceremony, where Chief Hern’s name was formally added to the memorial wall alongside 345 other fallen officers from across the country.

Hern died Jan. 13, 1923, from an accidental gunshot wound. His sacrifice was lost to time until 2024, when Simpson uncovered the forgotten story while researching the department’s history. After confirming the details, he submitted a nomination package to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial, ensuring that the city’s first chief would be recognized and remembered.

“It was a powerful and emotional moment to see Chief Hern’s name etched in the memorial wall,” said Simpson in a press release.

While in Washington, the Polson delegation also had the opportunity to meet with Montana U.S. Sen. Tim Sheehy. Simpson spoke with Sheehy about the history of policing in Montana, the rediscovery of Hern’s legacy, and the growing importance of supporting mental health resources for law enforcement officers.

National Police Week is held annually in Washington, D.C., bringing together officers, families, and supporters from across the country to honor the fallen and reflect on the sacrifices made in the line of duty.

The Polson Police delegation also had the opportunity to pay their respects to Chief Alex “Alec” Couture, the first full-time police chief for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. Couture made the ultimate sacrifice in 1963 after succumbing to injuries from fighting off two assailants in Elmo.

"It was humbling beyond words,” said Simpson. “No sacrifice should ever be forgotten – no matter how much time has passed.”

For more information about National Police Week or the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial, visit www.nleomf.org.

    U.S. Senator Tim Sheehy, third from left, met with members of the Polson Police Department including Sergeant Kyle Cooper, Chief George Simpson, and Polson Police Clerk Joan Hart in the Russell Senate Building. (Courtesy photo)