Hero Cop's Son Joins NYPD, Will Wear Commish's Badge
NEW YORK (CBS 2/WCBS 880) -- It was a story of real-life "Blue Bloods" on Wednesday, as the son of a hero cop got his own badge and gun. Both the new recruit and his badge have a long history.
Conor McDonald said police work is in his blood, reports CBS 2's Kathryn Brown.
"Ever since I was born, there's always police officers coming in and out of my house," he said.
The 24-year-old recruit has a long history with the NYPD – his great-grandfather, grandfather, and uncle were all on the force.
His father, Steven McDonald, was an officer as well. He was shot while on-duty in 1986, and paralyzed from the neck down.
"I wouldn't want that to be my son's story," Steven McDonald said. "I want him to save lives, but I want him to take care of his own safety as well."
Podcast
WCBS 880's Rich Lamb talks with Commissioner Kelly and newly-made officer, Conor McDonald.
On Wednesday, the proud father watched as NYPD Commissioner Ray Kelly badged his son – but it was no ordinary badge.
Conor requested Commissioner Kelly's badge – number 15978 – and the commissioner agreed. It's the first time it's happened.
"My father and I discussed it, and like I said, he's a hero," Conor said.
"This shield has certainly served me well, and it is an honor to have it go to Conor," Commissioner Kelly said.
It was a bittersweet moment for Conor's mother, Patti Ann, who has stood by her husband every day since the shooting.
"As a mother, and after my experience with Steven, you know, I would be lying if I said I wasn't nervous," she said.
Patti Ann said she's comfortable with the training Conor has received, and he said he's ready to hit the streets.
"This is the greatest thing in the world," Conor said. "[Commissioner Kelly is] a great American, a great New Yorker, and just to have his number is a complete honor."
Conor McDonald officially graduates from the police academy on December 27.
Conor will not only be wearing Commissioner Kelly's badge number, but the same physical badge that Kelly wore for 27 years.
