Patrolman Albert L Borrell

Patrolman Albert L Borrell 

17 February 1919

Patrolman Albert L Borrell - Albert L. Borrell, a dedicated patrolman in the Eastern District for five years, tragically passed away last week [16 Feb 1919] at his residence, 1321 North Central Ave., succumbing to a line-of-duty illness. After a nine-day illness, pneumonia took his life. A challenging work assignment in late January left him freezing and drenched, leading to a severe cold from which he couldn’t recover. His condition quickly deteriorated, progressing from acute viral nasopharyngitis, to bronchitis, to pneumonia, and ultimately claiming his life.

At the age of 32, Borrell had been a member of the Police Department since 13 February 1914. His untimely death occurred just two days after his fifth anniversary with the Baltimore Police Department. In March of the previous year, Borrell had briefly resigned to pursue government work. However, like many of his colleagues who leave the force prematurely, he felt a strong pull to return to his policing duties, which he did after a week.

The Ultimate Sacrifice

While every fallen officer has made the ultimate sacrifice, it is important to acknowledge that not all line-of-duty deaths are the result of a heroic act that warrants a Medal of Honor. However, this does not diminish the gravity of their sacrifice. Each and every officer who has fallen in the line of duty or whose lives ended due to other circumstances in a duty-related death deserves our utmost respect and honor. It is our duty to pause, reflect, and remember these individuals as our fallen brothers and sisters. Their dedication to service and the price they paid should never be forgotten.