New Bedford Guide Your Guide to New Bedford and South Coast, MA
“We would like to acknowledge the 20th anniversary of the passing of New Bedford Police Officer and Army National Guard Staff Sgt. Joseph Camara in Iraq.
For those who had the privilege of knowing him, Officer Camara is remembered as a devoted officer whose calm demeanor had a comforting effect on those around him. We also recall how the entire city came to a standstill on the day of his funeral.
Every member of our police department marched in unison toward his final resting place, while the streets were lined with citizens who respectfully lowered their heads and placed their hands over their hearts. We can still picture children holding signs expressing their love for Joe and the NBPD.
Today, please take a moment to honor the sacrifice of one of our finest. Officer Camara passed away on September 1, 2003, while serving during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was 40 years old at the time.
Officer Camara was assigned to the 115th Military Police Company of the U.S. Army National Guard, located in Cranston, Rhode Island. To us, he was known as one of the best people at Station #3. He tragically lost his life south of Baghdad, Iraq, when his vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device, resulting in the loss of another soldier in the same incident.
“He was an exceptional partner. He had no qualms about going back and serving his duty in the military. He had put his time in and was ready to retire but he went back and he had a job to do.”-Officer Luis Sud-Martinez (retired). Joe’s partner on the midnight patrol.
Camara was survived by his wife, Ana, and children Matthew, Angela, and Ashley.
We love you, Joe…”-City of New Bedford Police Department.
