The Capitol held a ceremony Monday morning for fallen officers.
Hundreds of people were at the 35th annual Law Enforcement Officers’ Memorial Service on Monday to celebrate 7 men and women who died in the line of duty during 2016, as well as 3 recently discovered officers who died away during the 1930s and 1940s but were not recognized at the time. The event was held on the Capitol steps. Tallahassee Mayor Andrew Gillum read from a proclamation.
"And whereas the death of each police officer affects the lives of many people, including husbands, wives, children, parents, brothers, sisters, and friends, who have to accept their love one’s commitment to helping others in spite of the many risks involved. And whereas one week per year is set aside to remember, honor, memorialize, these individuals and recognize their ultimate sacrifice for the welfare of their communities," Gillum said.
Florida Department of Law Enforcement Assistant Commissioner Don Ladner presented a proclamation to the Florida State Fraternal Order of Police to deem April 24th “Florida Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Day.”
"Police officers are willing to sacrifice their lives to protect their families and homes against those who violate the law," Ladner said. "And whereas, we are indebted to our law enforcement personnel who work in at-risk environments to protect us."
There are currently 792 names engraved on the Walls of Honor. The ceremony ended with the retirement of colors.