When Bill Decker Deputized John Wayne

John Wayne was a U.S. marshal, far more than once. He was police lieutenant and then detective, back to back in the 1970s. And, of course, he played a sheriff, repeatedly and quite famously. And now, courtesy Heritage Auction Galleries, proof of his greatest position in law enforcement: an honorary...

By Robert Wilonsky

August 12, 2011

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John Wayne was a U.S. marshal, far more than once. He was police lieutenant and then detective, back to back in the 1970s. And, of course, he played a sheriff, repeatedly and quite famously. And now, courtesy Heritage Auction Galleries, proof of his greatest position in law enforcement: an honorary deputy sheriff of Dallas County, courtesy Sheriff Bill Decker. From The Personal Property of John Wayne Signature Auction, opening bid $1,000, signed by both men.

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