Private First Class James Presley Boyd, Jr.

Private First Class James Presley Boyd, Jr.

United States Army Military Police Corps, U.S. Government

End of Watch Wednesday, October 31, 1973

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James Presley Boyd, Jr.

Private First Class James Boyd was shot and killed when he and another MP encountered two suspects who had just robbed the gas station at Fort Bragg's exchange.

PFC Boyd and his partner intercepted the suspects as they attempted to flee on foot toward N.C. 210. Despite being mortally wounded, PFC Boyd was able to return fire and wounded one of the suspects. The other MP also returned fire and killed the other suspect.

PFC Boyd was assigned to the 21st MP Company 503rd MP Battalion. He was survived by his parents, sister, and brother.

In 2010 the United States Army began hosting the "PFC James Boyd Jr. Top Cop Competition," an annual national competition designed to build camaraderie between military and civilian law enforcement agencies.

Bio

  • Age 19
  • Tour Not available
  • Badge Not available
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Location North Carolina
  • Weapon Handgun
  • Offender Shot and killed

robbery

Most Recent Reflection

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Brother Jimmy, I'm not going to ask because I know you are at peace and safe in the arms of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I spent the day yesterday touring the last place we shared here on earth before the tragic encounter you and I had with the two THUGS that tragically cost you your life. The day yesterday here in Ft. Bragg, NC was just the way as remember it 52 years ago. Clear skies and a cool 50 deg. I drove the route we took to intercept the two murderers to the point where we had shoutout on NC Hwy 210/Murchinson Road. (Our shootout at Ft. Bragg with the 2 SOB's) who had just robbed a service station on Gruber Road. I had too relived the whole tragic incident again, so I can continue coping with my life here on earth till the day the Lord calls on me. I truly believe what I understand from the Holy Bible that you and I will be patrol partners again including our Brother Pfc. Branch for eternity. In a little while I'm headed to your tomb in Charlotte, NC where your earthly remains rest at peace and safe. Brother Jimmy as long as my memory serve me "I will never forget YOU, my Brother. Love you!

RALPH ROMERO, SGT. (VET)
U.S. ARMY, 21st MP Co, 503rd MP Bn., FT. BRAGG, NC.
Charlotte Police Dept, Charlotte, NC
Miami-Dade Police Dept,

November 1, 2025

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