Rep. Baird supports resolution to honor former Putnam County sheriff, veteran

Monday, March 17, 2025 at 8:56 AM

By Staff report

James Baugh was a U.S. Air Force veteran who served in Vietnam. Following his military service, he worked for the Greencastle Police Department before transferring to the Putnam County Sheriff's Department, where he served in various capacities including as sheriff from 1975 to 1982.

State Rep. Beau Baird (R-Greencastle) recently supported a resolution urging the Indiana Department of Transportation to rename the bridge over Big Walnut Creek on U.S. Highway 231 after former sheriff, Capt. James Baugh of Putnam County, who tragically died in the line of duty.

"I had the privilege of knowing Jim personally and witnessed firsthand his character, leadership and unwavering commitment to the people he swore an oath to protect. He was a dedicated law enforcement officer and an integral part of our community," Baird said. "While we cannot undo the tragedy, what we can do is ensure his name is forever remembered by honoring him with this resolution and renaming a bridge in recognition of his sacrifice and life of service."

In 2004, Baugh was responding to a minor property-damage accident when he lost control of his patrol car on U.S. 231 and overturned into Big Walnut Creek. Baugh was transferred to Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis where he later succumbed to his injuries, just four months before he was set to retire.

Baugh was a U.S. Air Force veteran who served in Vietnam. Following his military service, he worked for the Greencastle Police Department before transferring to the Putnam County Sheriff's Department, where he served in various capacities including as sheriff from 1975 to 1982. Baugh achieved the rank of captain during his 32 years as a law enforcement officer.

Baird previously co-authored a similar resolution to honor Baugh during the 2021 legislative session. He also presented Baugh's family with two state flags flown over the Indiana Statehouse in honor of Capt. Baugh.

U.S. Rep. Jim Baird also presented the family with two U.S. flags flown over the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.

Senate Concurrent Resolution 11 passed the Indiana Senate before passing the full House of Representatives unanimously. Once a renaming resolution is passed through the Indiana General Assembly, INDOT can move forward with the project.