ATF Honors First American Indian Investigator Killed in Line of Duty

by Levi Rickert, editor-in-chief in Native Currents. Discussion »

WASHINGTON - William Louis Pappan, the first American Indian ATF investigator killed in the line of duty in the post-prohibition era, will be honored in a memorial service at the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Headquarters Memorial Wall in Washington on Wednesday morning. Agent Pappan’s name will be unveiled on the Memorial Wall at the ceremony.

Agent Pappan - Kaw Nation

Agent Pappan, who was a tribal member of the Kaw Nation, was killed 75 years ago. He was killed on December 4, 1935, as he conducted late-night beer license inspections at a Tulsa, Oklahoma night club.

At the time of his death, Agent Pappan was six weeks shy of his 41st birthday.

ATF’s unveiling of Agent Pappan’s name is in conjunction with National Police Week activities and will include a presentation of colors, a wreath laying ceremony, taps, and an American Indian blessing. Pappan’s 82-year old son, who was six-years old at the time of his father’s death, will be present, along with other members of the Pappan family.

Agent Pappan’s obituary noted that he was a first cousin of Charles Curtis, the former Vice-President of the United States under President Herbert Hoover. Agent William Louis Pappan was survived by his wife and six children.

WHAT:     Louis Pappan Memorial Observance

WHERE:     ATF Headquarters - Memorial Wall
99 New York Avenue, NE,
Washington

WHEN:     Wednesday, May 11, 2011
10:00 AM EDT

WHO:
ATF Acting Director Kenneth Melson
Chris Chaney, Deputy Director for the Justice Department’s Office of Tribal Justice
National Law Enforcement Memorial Fund
Pappan family members