Ben Alexander was the partner on TV in the black and white Dragnet. Heavy set, actually more portly, a definite 50s type body. Had a car dealership in San Francisco, Chevrolet, I think. If I'm not mistaken, Ben Alexander was the actor's name, but it could have been the character. I'm now actually older than they both - Webb/Friday and partner - so it's been a while. At any rate, he - Alexander - died I think, which is why Harry Morgan showed up. A definite drop down - for Webb/Friday, who also died at a relatively young age - some type of cancer if I recall. Am I rambling here? Larry F