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Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site Honors Buffalo Police Detective Sergeant Nicholas Militello with Theodore Roosevelt Police Award
October 16, 2026

 

BUFFALO, NY — The Theodore Roosevelt Association (TRA) proudly congratulates Detective Sergeant Nicholas Militello of the Buffalo Police Department on receiving the Theodore Roosevelt Police Award, presented by the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site in Buffalo, New York on September 30, 2026.

Established in 1983 by the Theodore Roosevelt Association to commemorate the 125th anniversary of President Theodore Roosevelt’s birth and his service as President of the New York City Board of Police Commissioners, the Theodore Roosevelt Police Awards recognize law enforcement officers who continue to render outstanding and praiseworthy service despite a serious handicap, illness, or injury. Presented in cities across the country, the awards celebrate the courage, perseverance, and dedication to public service that defined Theodore Roosevelt's life.

A 14-year veteran of the Buffalo Police Department, Detective Sergeant Militello serves in the department's B-District, one of the city's busiest and most demanding districts. A lifelong resident of Buffalo's West Side and the son of a Buffalo police detective and SWAT team member, Detective Militello has continued his family's legacy of service to the community.

Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site Honors Buffalo Police Detective Sergeant Nichola
Left to right: Spencer Morgan (TR Site Executive Director); Geoffrey McDermid (Vice President/TR Site Board of Trustees); Det. Sgt. Nicholas Militello; David Wagner (Roosevelt & Cross Executive VP); Sean Ryan (Mayor of Buffalo); and Erika Shields (Buffalo Police Commissioner)

In his leadership role, Detective Militello oversees a team of detectives responsible for investigating thousands of incidents, ranging from neighborhood crimes to complex, multi-jurisdictional investigations. His work includes investigations involving violent crimes, robberies, narcotics trafficking, shootings, fraud, and organized criminal activity. Known for his tireless work ethic, Detective Militello routinely works extended hours, responds to emergencies, assists fellow officers, and provides direct support to victims and residents.

Among his notable investigations was the recovery of President Theodore Roosevelt's historic pocket watch, which had been stolen from the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site and remained missing for 37 years. Working alongside the National Park Service and Federal Bureau of Investigation, Detective Militello played a role in the investigation involving the treasured presidential artifact, which was recovered in 2023.

Despite living with a neurological disorder that causes vertigo and headaches, symptoms that can worsen under stress and extended working hours, Detective Militello continues to demonstrate extraordinary commitment to his responsibilities. His dedication to his fellow officers, the victims he serves, and the Buffalo community exemplifies the spirit of perseverance embodied by President Theodore Roosevelt.
Detective Militello was nominated for the award by Buffalo Police B-District Chief Tommy Champion in recognition of his relentless work ethic, exceptional leadership, and unwavering dedication to public service.

The Theodore Roosevelt Association is proud of its strong and longstanding partnership with the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site. Together, the organizations share a commitment to preserving President Theodore Roosevelt’s legacy, advancing historical education, and inspiring future generations through leadership and public service. The TRA values this important relationship and looks forward to continued collaboration on programs and initiatives that honor President Roosevelt’s enduring impact on our nation.

The Theodore Roosevelt Association congratulates Detective Sergeant Nicholas Militello on this well-deserved recognition and commends the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site for continuing this important tradition of honoring exceptional law enforcement officers.

About the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site
The Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site, a unit of the National Park Service, preserves the location where Theodore Roosevelt unexpectedly took the oath of office as the 26th President of the United States on September 14, 1901, following the death of President William McKinley. Located in Buffalo, New York, the historic site advances President Roosevelt's legacy of leadership by inspiring civic engagement and preserving the birthplace of the modern presidency. To learn more visit www.trsite.org.

Theodore Roosevelt Association

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