Keith Dressel’s son, Noah, graduated from the 71st academy class of the Toledo Police Department 18 years after his death.
PERRYSBURG, Ohio — The Toledo Police Department celebrated the graduation of its 71st academy class on Friday at Owens Community College, swearing in 28 new officers. Among them was Noah Dressel, son of Det. Keith Dressel, who was killed in the line of duty in 2007.
“It means a lot to me that I can honor him this way and keep his memory going forward,” Noah Dressel said.
Dressel wanted to become a police officer for as long as he could remember, despite the tragedy of losing his father. Dressel found motivation in his memory throughout the academy’s 32-week training program.
“There are times when it got hard and that’s what I had to remind myself of,” he said. “That was what kept me going through all of the hard times. Any time I had doubt, that’s what kept me going forward.”
Toledo Police Chief Michael Troendle, a classmate of Keith Dressel at the police academy, spoke with Noah at the beginning of his journey.
“I talked to him when we interviewed to make sure this was the right thing,” Troendle said. “You could tell from the very beginning: he was all in. This was his dream.”
Now that he has achieved his dream, Troendle expressed support.
“It’s a proud day, but it’s a little heart-wrenching, too. To see him follow in his footsteps, I know that would make his dad proud,” Troendle said.
The newly sworn officers will have the weekend off before beginning their patrols on Monday.
It is with great pride and honor that we announce the newest addition to the Toledo Police Department – the son of fallen officer Keith Dressel. Following in his father’s footsteps, the young Dressel has completed his training and has officially joined the ranks of Toledo’s finest.
Officer Keith Dressel tragically lost his life in the line of duty, serving and protecting the citizens of Toledo. His dedication and sacrifice will never be forgotten, and now his legacy lives on through his son who has chosen to carry on the family tradition of serving the community.
As the son of a hero, the young Dressel is sure to bring a sense of dedication, courage, and honor to his role as a Toledo police officer. We are grateful for his commitment to keeping our city safe and proud to have him as part of the Toledo Police Department family.
Please join us in congratulating the son of fallen officer Keith Dressel on this significant milestone in his career and in honoring the memory of his father’s service to our community. Together, we stand united in support of our law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line every day to protect and serve.
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