Patrolman Walter John Bermingham

Patrolman Walter John Bermingham

Chicago Police Department, Illinois

End of Watch Thursday, October 3, 1918

Add to My Heroes

Walter John Bermingham

Patrolman Walter Bermingham died as a result of complications from influenza while performing his assigned duties during the Influenza Pandemic.

Patrolman Bermingham was survived by his expectant wife and two children. His daughter was born five months later.


Effects of Spanish Flu on Law Enforcement

From 1918 to early 1919, the Spanish Flu pandemic infected an estimated 500 million people worldwide—about one-third of the planet’s population—and killed approximately 675,000 Americans. Many officers contracted this virus due to the requirements of their job.

The names of every officer who died in the line of duty from the Spanish Flu will likely never be known, but ODMP researchers continue to uncover new cases as part of our mission to never forget the fallen.

Please click here to view ODMP's Spanish Flu memorial listing all known fallen officers from the pandemic.

Bio

  • Age 28
  • Tour Not available
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Duty related illness
  • Incident Date Saturday, September 28, 1918

communicable disease, Spanish Influenza

Most Recent Reflection

View all 2 Reflections

Patrolman Bermingham,
On today, the 106th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Chicago.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

October 3, 2024

Want even more control of your Reflection? Create a free ODMP account now for these benefits:

  • Quick access to your heroes
  • Reflections published quicker
  • Save a Reflection signature
  • View, edit or delete any Reflection you've left in the past

Create an account for more options, or use this form to leave a Reflection now.