William Kerr: Remembering Apollo Patrolman Leonard C. Miller

Jan. 3 marks the 40th anniversary of the death of Apollo Patrolman Leonard C. Miller, who sacrificed his life for the community. This date is celebrated not because Leonard Miller died, but because he lived.

Miller was a friend and colleague, and the life of this young man — who died at 21 in the line of duty — seems like yesterday to me.

Miller was the first African American police officer to serve Apollo. The Apollo Borough Council Public Safety Committee, of which I was chairman in 1977, hired Miller as a young recruit, when he was a candidate for the Indiana University of Pennsylvania Police Academy. The committee knew Miller had a strong desire to serve, and we recognized his unlimited potential to be successful in the field of law enforcement.

Patrolman James D. Clawson, Miller’s best friend and partner in law enforcement, entered the Municipal Education and Training Act 120 certification program with Miller, and both graduated with distinguished honors. I recall the enthusiasm of these young officers, as they met the academic rigor and physical demands of the training academy. Clawson, inspired by Miller’s life, ultimately served his community with the same dedication and devotion to duty for 27 years, including tenure as police chief.

Miller, who was genuine by nature with a congenial personality, had an exceptionally good rapport with young people, especially troubled youth. Equally important, he worked extraordinarily hard to earn the respect of the community and people whom he served.

Although well versed in Pennsylvania criminal and vehicle code enforcement, Miller really had something greater to offer: He listened to people intently, talked with people about their problems, and resolved matters without ever writing a citation. However, when the situation demanded it, he took the necessary corrective action and acted accordingly.

By 1979, when I was mayor, Miller had earned the confidence of officials, and was named to a full-time position effective Jan. 1, 1980. The mayor and borough council fully embraced the police department with an unwavering commitment to provide expanded police protection, and Miller was an integral part of the improvement plan.

Mark Fetterman, chairman of the Public Safety Committee, worked tirelessly to secure federal funding to support a third full-time police position.

The collective efforts of borough officials and police department personnel set the stage for much success. Increased police patrols, adequate police equipment and improved administration with an emphasis on continuing education and training for all officers were among the priorities. Miller’s professional demeanor, commitment to his community, and determination to serve the common good of others contributed greatly to the success of the police department.

Forty years ago, on Jan. 3, 1980, I kneeled at Leonard Miller’s side as he lay dying face-down next to his patrol car on Route 66 south, just across the Apollo Bridge near the old Belvedere Hotel in Westmoreland County. My visit with his parents to report the circumstances surrounding his death and the emotions of that time will remain with me forever.

Only those who knew Miller personally can fully appreciate his strong character. I will never forget Leonard C. Miller and I will always respect the men and women in law enforcement, especially those who share the same values and characteristics.

Several tributes honor Miller’s life: An annual scholarship is awarded to an Apollo-Ridge High School senior who plans to major in criminal justice; the new Apollo Bridge is officially the Leonard C. Miller Bridge; and the Leonard C. Miller Memorial is located near the main portal to town. Historical artifacts are displayed at the Apollo Borough municipal offices and police department and the Apollo Area Historical Society.

Every five years, the community comes together for a public memorial program, this year at 2 p.m. Jan. 19 at Apollo First Lutheran Church in cooperation with the Apollo New Life Baptist Church. A new portrait of Miller will be unveiled, and his official Service Badge #78 will be presented for official display at the municipal offices.

Law enforcement officers deserve more respect and support for their daily sacrifices and services. Each has taken a sworn oath to uphold the Constitutions of the United States and Pennsylvania and to protect and serve the greater community with duty, honor and courage, including making the supreme sacrifice of giving one’s life.

“There is no greater love than this, that a man lay down one’s life for his friends.” (John 15:13)

Leonard C. Miller loved people, loved his community and loved life. We won’t forget Miller and his duty, honor and courage.

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Dr. William Kerr is a former mayor of Apollo Borough and was associated with the Rainbow Emergency Management System for 20 years.