William H. Edwards, III

On February 2, 1998, Officer William Herman “Bill” Edwards, III, was on a funeral escort detail when he was fatally injured in a traffic crash.

Edwards was born on July 13, 1947, in Detroit, Michigan. His family moved to Henrico County in 1953 after his father received a job transfer. In 1964, after graduating from high school, Edwards enlisted in the United States Navy where he served honorably until his discharge in 1968. During his tour in the Navy, he attained the rank of E-4 and served as a Petty Officer. He was assigned to sea duty aboard the U.S.S. Albany for two and a half years, and aboard the U.S.S. William W. Wood for the remainder of his enlistment.

On October 16, 1968, Edwards became a Henrico County Police Officer and served as a patrol officer. In 1977, he was assigned to the Division’s Motorcycle Squad where he remained until his untimely death. Edward’s was a certified instructor who was known throughout Virginia for his expertise in defensive tactics.

Officer Edwards’ name is inscribed on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C.