Family finally receives deceased World War II vet’s medals

Whitehouse holds ceremony for East Providence native, former police officer Peterson

By Mike Rego
Posted 1/18/23

A deceased city native and former police officer received long overdue recognition recently, when United States Senator Sheldon Whitehouse presented a descendant of Albert E. Peterson Sr. with medals …

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Family finally receives deceased World War II vet’s medals

Whitehouse holds ceremony for East Providence native, former police officer Peterson

Posted

A deceased city native and former police officer received long overdue recognition recently, when United States Senator Sheldon Whitehouse presented a descendant of Albert E. Peterson Sr. with medals he earned during World War II.

At his office in Providence on Tuesday, Jan. 17, Sen. Whitehouse held a military medal presentation ceremony for the late Peterson, known to friends and family as “Pete,” who passed away in July of 2020 at the age of 92. Peterson’s son, Albert E. Peterson Jr., accepted the medals on behalf of his father.

The elder Peterson rose to the rank of lieutenant in the United States Navy. After the war, he served on the East Providence Police Department before becoming a member of the Rhode Island State Police, where he similarly earned the rank of lieutenant.

According to his biographical information, Peterson was born and raised in East Providence. At the age of 17, he enlisted in the Navy as WWII reached its zenith, eventually serving from 1944-1946.

Peterson was assigned the position and rank of Carpenter’s Mate, Third Class, which made him a member of the Navy “Seabees,” a.k.a. the United States Naval Construction Battalions. His tours of duty sent him to the Pacific Theatre and the Battle of Okinawa. For his service, he earned the WWII Victory Medal and American Area Medal.

Upon discharge, Peterson became an EPPD officer. He remained in city for three years before he was accepted into the State Police Academy. He would go on to a have a 23-year career as a state trooper. Peterson held the positions of uniform trooper, detective as well as day and night shift supervisor. He was also a training officer at the State Police Academy, instructing over 100 recruits. He was also one of the first Rhode Island State Troopers to graduate from the prestigious Federal Bureau of Investigations National Academy.

Peterson stepped away from law enforcement in 1974, moving into the private sector where he became Director of Security at Allendale Insurance Company in Johnston. He worked there for over 20 years before retiring for good.

Peterson, who eventually settled in Glocester, enjoyed hunting, fishing and spending time with his family. He also remained active with the State Police as a member of the Retired Trooper Association. As a member of the association, he wrote a monthly newsletter, attended meetings, and sponsored the annual cookout.

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MIKE REGO

Mike Rego has worked at East Bay Newspapers since 2001, helping the company launch The Westport Shorelines. He soon after became a Sports Editor, spending the next 10-plus years in that role before taking over as editor of The East Providence Post in February of 2012. To contact Mike about The Post or to submit information, suggest story ideas or photo opportunities, etc. in East Providence, email mrego@eastbaymediagroup.com.