Charles B. "Red" Gesford

I've checked it once...checked it twice...cleared and holstered an empty weapon. The smoking lamp is lit, Sarge. Smoke 'em, if you've got 'em. Continue to Rest In Peace...

Just thinking of Sgt Gesford makes me smile. First, there were his announcements over the Academy PA system. After delivering the message he would always state his name, Sgt Gesford. Down in the dorm area one could hear cadets repeating, Sgt Gesford. In 1973 Sgt Gesford headed up the Mounted Detail at the Boy Scout Jamboree at Moraine State Park in Butler County. Sparks, Reitnour and myself were the riders. Sgt Gesford made this a great and memorable assignment. Through out the years...

Sgt. Gesford was a true 'Statie'. As an instructor, he was patient, knowledgeable, firm and fair. I always felt safe, whether working undercover narcotics on the urban streets, patrolling the rural roadways or protecting our governors around the Commonwealth and this country. Not just because he taught me how to handle a firearm...but because he also taught me to do it safely and with confidence and proficiency. For that I say 'Thank You Sarge'...and 'Rest In Peace'.

Sgt. Gesford was a true 'Statie'. As an instructor, he was patient, knowledgeable, firm and fair. I always felt safe, whether working on the urban streets or the rural roads of Pa. Not only because he taught me how to handle a firearm...but because he also taught this Phila. city kid (52nd PSP Cadet Class - 1983) how to do it, with confidence and proficiency...thank you, Sarge...and rest in peace.

I was privileged to have met Sgt. Gesford when I was at the Academy. We were all pretty much in awe of him, I think. I thought I was a pretty good shot with the pistol at the range, until Sgt Gesford stood next to me and shot his own revolver - upside down - scoring a perfect 10x bullseye on the target. He was a true gentleman and I wish there were more like him.

Rest in Peace friend and brother. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and my first shoulder holster you made for me. You will not be forgotten.

Uncle Charlie, I've had the pleasure of being your lifelong niece! I can still see you chewing that unlit cigar and swinging your golfclub in the grass at Grandma and Grandpa Gesford's house. It's funny how we impact others in life unknowingly, a smile, a listening ear, a warm hello, being a mentor, an instructor, or being a friend. Jesus loves you, this I know, Uncle Charlie. All my love, ole' Deb Deb (Shade) Glassmoyer family.

I met "Red" Gesford in Jan of 1973 (33rd PSP Cadet Class) he was the consumate professional. He trained generations of State Police Cadets in firearms and firearms safety. His skills and abilities knew no equal. He was a Staties Statie and a true unassuming gentleman. He leaves a void not to be filled anytime soon. God Bless him and he is now at eternal peace leaving a legacy and we will all miss him.