Hundreds of people, including troopers, deputies, and officers gathered in the Quad Cities Monday to celebrate the re-naming of the Centennial Bridge, connecting Rock Island with Davenport.
The Master Sergeant Stanley Talbot Memorial Bridge honors a man who was killed at the foot of the bridge in Rock Island in 2001 during a roadside safety check.
The 50 year old Talbot was dragged for several blocks by a motorist who had been stopped, and then accidentally run over by a pursuing squad car.
State Police director, Leo Schmitz, says it's our duty never to forget him and his service.
"There's a common bond for all of us, anybody that raises their right hand and puts on a badge. Our job is to take care of the people. He was willing to trade his life to save others, and he did."
Dan Roach served with Talbot, calling him a friend and mentor.
"When he worked in patrol he would often help out a stranded motorist - by paying for a meal, some gasoline, and even once for a new tire. Stan personified the long-standing motto of the Illinois State Police - integrity, service, and pride."
A native of Annawan in Henry County, Talbot joined the Illinois State Police in 1975, and had planned to retire later that year. His son now serves with the Collinsville Police Department and a daughter is a State Police master sergeant
The re-naming was approved this spring by the Illinois General Assembly.
