Raymond LEONARD Hawkins
Officer Raymond L. Hawkins was shot on December 23, 1971, while off-duty and attempting to foil a robbery of a 7-11 store in Prince Georges County, Maryland.
Two nights before Christamas, Officer Hawkins interupted a robbery in progress. Officer Hawkins had subdued and was frisking the robber when an unseen accomplice shot him in the head from behind. Officer Hawkins who overcame serious Vietnam war wounds to pass the physical exam and join the U.S. Park Police in May, 1969, remained unconscious and in very serious condition at Cafritz Hospital. Offcier Hawkins never regained consciousness and died as a result of that wound on February 15, 1972. He was 28 years old and had three years of U. S. Park Police service.
Three men were arrested in Prince Georges County on March 10, 1972 and charged with the murder of Officer Hawkins. Charles K. Hopkins, 21, of Suitland was convicted of murder and robbery in the fatal shooting.
On October 26, 1973, the Force established the Raymond L. Hawkins Award for Excellence in Police Training. Permanently inscribed on the Headquarters plaque are his words.
"I have always been interested in becoming a member of the public services....and contribute to the health, safety and well being of my fellow man."
Officer Hawkins' name has been engraved on Panel 53, East-12 of the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial.