2026 Extraordinary Act of Courage Award- Sgt. James O’Connor

March 26, 2026

We will posthumously recognize Philadelphia Police Sergeant James O’Connor with the 2026 Extraordinary Act of Courage Award at this year’s Night for Blue. Sgt. O’Connor was a 23-year veteran of the force who embodied the essence of service and sacrifice. On March 13, 2020, while executing a high-risk warrant with the PPD SWAT team, Sgt. O’Connor was killed in the line of duty. Because his passing occurred at the beginning of the COVID pandemic, the community was unable to gather for the traditional tribute Sgt. O’Connor’s heroics and sacrifice deserved. This year, we will honor a legacy that extends beyond his own decades of service. The O’Connor family’s commitment to protecting others continues through Terri and Jim O’Connor’s children: Kelsey, a veteran of the United States Air Force and Jimmy, who currently serves as a Philadelphia Police Officer.

We are honored to have the opportunity to present the Courage Award to Sgt. O’Connor’s family in recognition of his unwavering dedication to Philadelphia, the ultimate sacrifice that he and his family have made, and the profound spirit of service that lives on through his children and his fellow officers.