SATURDAY’S grey and drizzly weather was reflected in a solemn memorial service at Orange Police Station to remember a fallen comrade.
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The service for Constable William Havilland marked the 150th anniversary since he was killed in Orange while on duty.
Constable Havilland was the first officer killed on duty following the formation of the NSW Police Force in 1862.
He and three other officers were on duty as part of the Forbes Gold Escort, in charge of gold worth 14,000 pounds along with banknotes and registered mail, when they were attacked by a gang of bushrangers, which included the notorious Frank Gardiner, Ben Hall and John Gilbert.
Despite two of the officers being injured and damage to the coach, they arrived in Orange the following day on June 16, 1862.
Shortly after arriving in town a revolver that was under the seat in the coach was accidentally discharged. The shot travelled up through the seat, striking constable Havilland under the chin and killing him instantly.
At the time of his death, Constable Havilland was 33.
Canobolas Local Area Command Detective Superintendent David Driver said it was important to remember fallen comrades, especially since NSW Police were celebrating their 150th year of operation.
“At the end of the day they leave behind loved ones and often policing duties take us away from our families,” he said.
Superintendent Driver says the final resting place of Constable Havilland is unknown, however, it is believed he is buried in an unmarked grave in the Catholic section of Orange Cemetery.
A memorial plaque was unveiled on the front wall of the Orange Police Station as a tribute to Constable Havilland.
nadine.morton@ruralpress.com