Federation remembers brave PC

14 April 2023

Hertfordshire Police Federation has paid tribute to fallen officer PC Frank Mason who was shot dead at the age of 27 when he tried to stop an armed robbery 35 years ago today.

Frank was off duty and walking his dog when he intervened in an armed robbery on a security van in Hemel Hempstead on 14 April 1988.

He had arrested one suspect when he was shot in the chest by a second attacker and died of his injuries. He was posthumously awarded the Queen’s Gallantry Medal.

Today’s tributes were led by Hertfordshire Police Federation chair Luke Mitchell.

He said: “Our members put their lives on the line every day and PC Frank Mason epitomises the courage, dedication to duty and self-sacrifice we ask of our police officers.

“Frank acted in the very best traditions of policing on that terrible day and showed amazing bravery and selflessness and a determination to do everything he could to keep the public safe from harm.

“He made the ultimate sacrifice and gave his life protecting us, and he’s an officer we’re all proud to say was one of our own.

“The thoughts of everyone at Hertfordshire Police Federation are with Frank’s family, friends and former colleagues today.”

The Frank Mason Memorial Award was established to commemorate his life. The award is presented to a Dacorum-based officer displaying similar dedication to the service as Frank.