His patrol ends as retirement calls

Jacksonville Journal Courier | June 17, 2021

Friday will be Edward Michael Broaddus Day in South Jacksonville, in recognition of a police officer who is retiring after having spent the past 17 years protecting the village and its residents.

“I’ve enjoyed my time here,” said Broaddus, a master sergeant with the department.

Broaddus started with the department on June 18, 2004.

According to village President Tyson Manker’s proclamation, Broaddus has served the village well during the past 17 years.

“During his time as a South Jacksonville police officer, Master Sgt. Broaddus received multiple commendations and promotions, and consistently demonstrated honor, integrity and commitment to the people of the Village,” the proclamation reads. “Master Sgt. Broaddus has for many years been a positive role model in the Village. At parades, festivals and other events, he is known to dress up as ‘Captain America,’ ‘Batman’ and ‘Superman’ to inspire children and adults alike. For many, Michael Broaddus is a real, living superhero. We are thankful for his service, and wish him good health, happiness and success in his future endeavors.”

Helping people is what drew him to a job in law enforcement after his time in the U.S. Army National Guard, Broaddus said.

“I think some get into it because of the guns and stuff but, for me, it’s just because I wanted to help people,” he said.

He believes he’ll most miss his interactions with the kids at South Jacksonville Elementary School, he said.

Throughout his time with the department, school crossing duty was one of his favorite times, he said.

“My fondest memories are of South School,” Broaddus said. “Of the kids. I considered that one of the best parts of the job.”

He saw multiple generations while helping with school crossing duty, he said.

“I had kids that grew up and had kids of their own that I saw during school crossings,” Broaddus said. “Getting to interact with the kids was the best part.”

Though retiring, Broaddus doesn’t expect to sit idle, he said.

With 11 grandkids, he plans to spend time with family and find other things to take up his time, he said.

“I’d like to do something community-oriented or veteran-oriented, since I am a veteran myself,” Broaddus said. “That, and I’ll spend time with my grandkids, because I didn’t get to spend a lot of time with my kids as they grew up.”

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