City to Honor Fallen Officer With Braddock Memorial Drive Dedication
Patrice Bumstead
Farmer Editor
March 20, 2026, will mark 30 years since Watford City Police Officer Keith Braddock (Badge #1114) was killed in the line of duty. To honor his service and sacrifice, the Watford City Police Department, in partnership with the City of Watford City, will dedicate a portion of 14th Avenue SE as Braddock Memorial Drive.
The public dedication ceremony is scheduled for Friday, March 20, 2026, at 1 p.m. The event will take place at the intersection of 12th Street SE and 14th Avenue SE, just south of the McKenzie County Law Enforcement Center. Community members are encouraged to attend and join city officials and law enforcement personnel in honoring Officer Braddock’s legacy.
“Officer Braddock gave his life in service to this community, and his sacrifice should never be forgotten,” Police Chief Jesse Wellen said. “This dedication ensures his name and legacy will continue to be a visible reminder of the risks law enforcement officers take and the commitment they make to protect others.”
In addition to the street dedication, Officer Braddock is also recognized along North Dakota Highway 200, which serves as the North Dakota Fallen Officers Memorial Highway. Working together, Chief Wellen and former McKenzie County Sheriff John Fulwider designated Mile Marker 14 as Officer Braddock’s memorial section. Signage noting the designation is now installed just west of Alexander, North Dakota.
“This memorial is not only about honoring Officer Braddock,” Wellen added, “but also about recognizing the broader sacrifice made by law enforcement officers and their families. It’s important that we pause, remember, and reflect as a community.
Officer Braddock’s death remains a significant moment in Watford City’s history, and local leaders say these memorial efforts ensure that his commitment to public safety will never be forgotten.
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