CHIEF MARSHAL CHRISTIAN HULJUS MEMORIAL
Chief Marshal Christian Hulgus died February 22, 1942, from injuries he suffered after his cruiser crashed into a utility pole as he tried to pull over a speeder. Marshall Hulgus was on patrol when he tried to stop a speeder on Werimus Road on February 18, 1942. According to contemporary newspaper accounts, as the driver slowed and appeared to pull over, Hulgus pulled up along side in order to stop him. The driver of the vehicle then raced away, and Hulgus' car swerved and struck a utility pole. He died of his injuries four days later at Hackensack Hospital.
Marshall Hulgus fought with the U.S. Marines in World War I, and at the time of his death was the Borough of Woodcliff Lake's lone officer.
In 2003 Marshall Hulgus' name was added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington DC. His name was also inscribed on the Law Enforcement Officers Memorial at the Bergen County Law and Public Safety Institute.
Among the letters written to a local newspaper immediately following Hulgus' death, the following two passages are typical:
"Knowing him as the conscientious protector of the people he was responsible for, as a friend with always a cheerful word, and a great guide to many who ran temporarily afoul of the law, I realize that the Pascack Valley has lost one of its finest men and grandest citizens."
"He was typical of that which is American in that he executed his duty with neither fanfare nor austerity and died in its fulfillment."
The Woodcliff Lake Police Department honors the memory of Chief Marshal Christian Hulgus, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the performance of his duty.
