Sgt. Dennis Pedigo enjoying retirement
Chattanoogans said goodbye on Friday to Sgt. Dennis Pedigo Sr., who retired from the Chattanooga Police Department in 2004 after a 27-year career of distinguished service.
There was a large turnout of his fellow officers and friends who described the Sergeant as “a man dedicated to the safety of the citizens in his city.”
Sheriff Austin Garrett said during his time at the Chattanooga Police Department, Sgt. Pedigo performed his duties in a very professional manner. “I always enjoyed working with him, he wore the badge proudly,” said Sheriff Garrett.
Sgt.. Pedigo was especially proud when his son, Officer Dennis Pedigo Jr., returned to work after being shot in the ankle when a gunman killed five soldiers in Chattanooga nine years ago. His father said at the time, “My son is a brave dedicated officer,. He was a hero that day. My boy (who was promoted to Sergeant in 2016) always goes the extra mile for our citizens; his priority is their safety.”
It was noted that Sgt. Pedigo Sr. died on the ninth anniversary of that terrible day in Chattanooga, the day five soldiers were killed and his son was wounded.. Bayside Baptist Church Pastor Jason King said he appreciated Sgt. Pedigo’s Sr.’s service to Chattanooga, but more importantly the officer was a man of faith, a believer in Jesus Christ. Sgt. Pedigo was active in the Son Worshipers Class.
Those attending Friday’s service heard a recording of “Go Rest High On the Mountain” by Vince Gill, one of Sgt. Pedigo’s favorite songs.
After his retirement, Sgt. Pedigo enjoyed long distance bike rides traveling on his motorcycle with Tara, his wife of 27 years.
Following a celebration of the Central High School graduate’s life at the North Chapel, Officer Pedigo was laid to rest at Hamilton Memorial Gardens with full police honors.
Fellow lawmen honor Sgt. Pedigo