GOSHEN, Ind. — Each year Goshen honors the life and service of Patrolman Thomas “Tommy” Edward Goodwin, whose legacy continues to shape the community.
Goodwin served with the Goshen Police Department beginning in 1991. Colleagues remember calm strength, kindness, and respect shown to every person he encountered.
On Dec. 11, 1998, Goodwin was shot and killed while investigating a report of shots fired at a local trailer park. He was 31. He remains the only Goshen police officer lost in the line of duty.
Officers, city leaders, family members, and residents gather annually on the date of his death at the Fallen Officer Memorial outside the Police and Courts Building. The annual remembrance includes reflection, spoken tributes, and a rose-laying ceremony led by the Goshen Police Honor Guard.
“Tom made the ultimate sacrifice for this community,” said Kyle Priem. “We carry a responsibility to remember year after year. Twenty-seven years later, the community recognition still matters.”
Goodwin’s influence continues through the Honor Guard, the Thomas E. Goodwin Memorial Scholarship, and Tommy’s Kids Castle at Shanklin Park.
The community remembers Goshen Patrolman Tommy Goodwin. His sacrifice endures. His legacy continues.
In the Line of Duty: Honoring ‘Tommy’
Video Production: Goshen College Senior Lily Herrera.