NEW YORK (1010 WINS) — Frank Serpico has been trying to get his Medal of Honor from the NYPD for 50 years and it finally happened.
In an interview with 1010 WINS reporter Juliet Papa, Serpico said that though finally receiving his accolades represents closure, it’s still a bittersweet moment.
“I was robbed. It was not only my profession, which I loved, to me it was a calling,” Serpico said.
In 1971, Serpico was shot in the face while working undercover before he was supposed to testify before the Knapp Commission about corruption in the NYPD. Serpico said backups did not help him when he was shot.
“We need laws to protect our police,” Serpico said. “Anyone who shoots a police officer should have life in prison without parole period.”
Despite the experience, Serpico said he still maintains respect for the profession and the officers out there doing their job.
Serpico originally received a medal in 1972 with an incorrect inscription identifying him as a patrolman. It was important for Serpico to receive the proper recognition for his service.
“I would be honored to accept that for all whistleblowers,” Serpico said. “But it is not for that. It is for being shot in the line of duty.”
In December, Serpico tweeted about the 50th anniversary of the incident, calling attention to the fact that the NYPD has yet to issue him the medal. Mayor Eric Adams replied, promising to get Serpico his medal.
Serpico’s career was depicted in a best-selling book and award-winning movie "Serpico" where he was played by Al Pacino.
On Thursday, Serpico finally received the long awaited package with his medal and certificate inside.