With 2026 being our country's 250th anniversary, we wanted to periodically share moments in the history of the York County Regional Police Department. The third installment is focusing on Officer David A. Wingert

Moment in History: “York to 21-83”

“York to 21-83.”

For those who have worn the badge, the sound of a call sign over the radio carries a certain weight. It represents a person, a responsibility, and a promise to answer when the community needs help.

Rarely do visitors stop to look closely at the photographs that line the entryway walls of the York County Regional Police Department headquarters on Oak Street in York Township. Yet those frames quietly tell the story of decades of service to the community—images of officers, commendations, and moments of recognition. Some display names and dates; others simply show the pride of a job well done.

Among them is the photograph of David A. Wingert.

When Officer Wingert succumbed to cancer in 2007 at the age of 48, those who knew him described him simply as “the best of the best.” In the community and among fellow officers, he had a reputation for being trustworthy and reliable—a police officer who relied on common sense, treated people with respect, and never complained.

Before wearing a local police uniform, Wingert had already dedicated two decades of his life to service. A decorated member of the United States Marine Corps, he retired with the rank of Master Sergeant after 20 years. During his military career, he earned numerous commendations and meritorious medals and served in combat during Operation Desert Storm.

After his military retirement, Wingert continued his commitment to public service. He spent ten years as a patrolman, first with the Red Lion Police Department and later with the York Area Regional Police Department.

In April of 1998, Wingert joined the Red Lion Police Department after being hired by Police Chief Walter Hughes. His selection was no surprise to those who evaluated him—he had achieved the highest combined score on the written and oral police examinations among 20 applicants. He was hired to replace retiring officer Robert Fishel, bringing with him both experience and a quiet professionalism that would quickly earn the respect of his fellow officers.

That same year, Wingert was recognized by the community he served when he was named Red Lion Borough’s Officer of the Year. Later, while serving with the York Area Regional Police Department under Chief Tom Gross, he was also honored by the Optimist Club with their Officer of the Year award.

On August 1, 2003, when the Red Lion Police Department merged into the York Area Regional Police Department, Wingert was sworn in as a regional officer alongside his fellow officers from Red Lion Borough. The merger marked a new chapter for policing in the region, and Wingert stood ready to continue his service under the new organization.

Chief Gross spoke of Wingert’s unwavering outlook despite personal health challenges later in his career. Reflecting on his character, the Chief noted Wingert’s remarkable positivity in the face of adversity, calling him “an inspiration to all.”

Although his time with the department was relatively short, the impact he had on fellow officers and the communities he served continues to be remembered. Upon his passing, the department retired his badge number—21-83—a lasting tribute to the man who answered the call behind it.

Today, the photograph of David Wingert remains on the wall at headquarters. It is one of many images that together form the living history of the department, reminding those who pass by that policing is more than a job—it is a commitment to service, honor, and courage.

As the York County Regional Police Department continues to highlight its Moments in History, we invite members of the community and fellow officers to share stories and photographs that help preserve the legacy of policing throughout America’s 250 years.

Written by: Samantha L. Dorm

March 14, 2026