Crime & Safety
Encore: Bristol Police Officer to Portray George Washington
John Godzieba has been selected to cross the Delaware River during the annual event at Washington Crossing Historical Park.
Bristol police Lieutenant John Godzieba isn’t your typical cop.
Godzieba will be portraying General George Washington as part of Washington Crossing Historic Park’s annual Christmas Day river crossing re-enactment.
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The Langhorne resident will be the park’s official George Washington for a period of three years. He will play the revered American hero at many events throughout all seasons, according to information released by the nonprofit Friends of Washington Crossing Park group.
The lieutenant previously portrayed Washington at the park since 2009, according to several media reports.
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Godzieba was selected after submitting a “one page letter stating why he should be selected to portray Washington, a resume of his re-enactor or other acting experience and a full length color photograph in his George Washington uniform,” the group said.
The winner was selected from a group of finalist who auditioned at the David Library of the American Revolution in September.
A panel of 7 judges rated each of the 10 finalist on whether they could project an accurate image of Washington through appearance, demeanor and speaking ability. Knowledge of the American Revolution and Washington’s role in the crossing of the Delaware on Christmas in 1776 was a key factor judges looked at, the release said.
C. Samuel Davis, a teacher at Trenton Central High School, scored second behind Godzieba and will serve as an understudy for the role.
Park visitors will have the opportunity to congratulate the winner on Saturday, Oct. 27 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. during an event at the 500-acre park in Upper Makefield Township.
