Ralph Franklin Garthwaite.
Patrolman Ralph Garthwaite was killed when his patrol car was struck head-on by a drunk driver on Highway 30 two miles north of Woodbine. The incident occurred on a bridge as Patrolman Garhwaite travelled northbound towards Dunlap, Iowa. The subject, who refused to take a blood test, was charged with manslaughter. A jury found him innocent on November 30th, 1956. Patrolman Garthwaite was a United States Army WWII veteran and had served with the Iowa State Patrol for three years.
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In tribute
I served 1985 to 1993. You served too, before the badge - different uniform, same idea. You go where you are sent and you do not get to pick the call.
Patrolman Garthwaite gave the Iowa State Patrol 3 years.
Thank you for your service to the people of Iowa, and for your service before it. Gone but never to be forgotten.
Rest easy, brother.
— S. Vincent Anthony, U.S. Army 1985-1993
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