Thanks to SUNY Morrisville’s Automotive Department, the cruiser of a fallen police officer found its permanent home at the Discovery Center Story Garden, in Johnson City.
Faculty, staff and students prepared the car of Johnson City police officer David “DW” Smith, who was killed in the line of duty in March 2014.
The vehicle honors Smith’s memory and becomes an educational part of helping children understand the everyday dedication of law enforcement officers. It joins various participatory exhibits and displays at the Story Garden, a unique space that features hands-on interactive experiences.
Students from all of SUNY Morrisville’s automotive programs were involved in the project, which included removing the driver’s side door that will become part of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington D.C., and installing a replacement door.
Students in the autobody program were among programs involved and had a hand in restoring the entire driver's side, as well as painting it.
