Over 40 years ago, James Gatto joined the NYPD with one goal in mind — to help people. As fate would have it, he would wind up helping some of the most important people in the nation.

In addition to performing motorcycle escorts for fallen cops and patrolling the Big Apple's roads, Gatto also became a legend within the department for serving on the highway detail for every U.S. president from Ronald Reagan to Donald Trump.

Whenever the commander-in-chief was in town, regardless of party, Gatto was among those tasked with keeping them safe, and the mission was clear.

“No matter what political party, you take it seriously," Gatto told amNewYork in an interview. "We protect the office. I know the person is in the office, but it's respect for that office that we take it so seriously."

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