KALAMAZOO (WKZO-AM) — The city of Kalamazoo has awarded Robert “Al” Goodwin a posthumous promotion to sergeant to honor his years of service to the community.
Goodwin was the first African-American to retire from the department.
On Monday, his widow, 90-year-old Juanita Goodwin, appeared in front of the Kalamazoo City Commission to receive the honor.
Commissioner Dave Anderson said Goodwin set an example for courage, persistence and loyalty that has endured. The latest class of 14 Public Safety recruits is one of the most diverse yet, and he hopes they follow his example.
“He was an individual who was the symbol of that kind of devotion and that kind of character,” Anderson said.
Goodwin retired in 1976 after 25 years on the force. His promotion was in conjunction with Black History Month.
– John McNeill
