One of North Dakota's first fallen law enforcement officers honored 90 years after being murdered by a 'crazed blacksmith' George Piepkorn, one of North Dakota’s most community-minded and dedicated peace officers is remembered for sacrificing his life in the line of duty 90 years ago. 10:04 am, May 18, 2021 × George Piepkorn was the first sheriff's deputy in Burleigh County to die in the line of fire. He is being honored on the 90th anniversary of his death, with a new headstone and ceremony in Wing, N.D. Submitted photo Hear Tracy Briggs narrate this story: WING, N.D. — The old black and white photos tell the story. The man with a strong jawline but even kinder eyes. George Piepkorn was a World War I era veteran, a man who almost single-handedly thwarted a bank robbery and who maybe even played baseball against Babe Ruth.