Queen Anne’s County Rededicates Mowbray Park in Honor of Fallen Maryland State Trooper

On Saturday, August 9, Queen Anne’s County held a rededication ceremony for Mowbray Park to honor the life and legacy of Sergeant Wallace Johnson Mowbray of the Maryland State Police, who was killed in the line of duty 50 years ago. The event took place at the park located at 629 Romancoke Road in Stevensville.

The ceremony featured an invocation and benediction by Pastor Bobby Timms, and the Maryland State Police Honor Guard. A backdrop of the American Flag was provided by Kent Island Volunteer Fire Department. Steve Chandlee, Director of the Department of Parks and Recreation, welcomed attendees and presented members of the Mowbray family the original plaque that the new memorial replaced.

Remarks were offered by Queen Anne’s County Commissioner Chris Corchiarino, former County Commissioner and State Delegate Wheeler Baker, and Robin Mowbray MacGillivray, daughter of Sergeant Mowbray.

Commissioner Corchiarino reflected on the significance of the day, saying, “Now fifty years later, let’s rededicate ourselves—to this memorial, to this park, and to a Queen Anne’s County that Sergeant Mowbray would be proud of. Let’s support our first responders, lift up their families, and ensure no one is forgotten.”

He continued, “This park—named in his honor—is a fitting place for this ceremony, where kids can feel safe playing today, just as Sergeant Mowbray made them safe when he patrolled the streets of Cambridge in his early days in law enforcement to his last moments patrolling Queen Anne’s County with the Maryland State Police. It’s a testament to Sergeant Mowbray’s life—a life rooted in love for his family and the people of this county. It’s a reminder of the cost of courage. And it’s a call to action—to honor his memory not just with words, but with a community that reflects his values.”

Following the remarks, a new commemorative plaque was unveiled in honor of Sergeant Mowbray’s service and sacrifice. The plaque reads:

“He fought the good fight. He kept the faith. This park is in memory of Sergeant Wallace J. Mowbray, Maryland State Police, who was shot and killed in the line of duty on August 9, 1975. Sergeant Mowbray’s pride in his community and his devotion to recreation for all ages will always be remembered. He gave his life so that others may live. It is too late to say ‘thank you Wally Mowbray,’ but God grant that we may not forget him or his example.”

“As we rededicate this memorial,” Commissioner Corchiarino added, “we renew our promise to never forget his sacrifice, his character, and the enduring impact he left on Queen Anne’s County.”

Community members, local officials, and public safety personnel joined the Mowbray family in paying tribute to the fallen trooper.

To learn more about Sergeant Wallace Johnson Mowbray and his story, visit:
https://www.odmp.org/officer/9695-sergeant-wallace-johnson-mowbray

View all the photos from the event here https://www.flickr.com/photos/qacpr/albums/72177720328344184/