Every year, on the last Sunday of September, we pay tribute to the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the police force.
CC Catherine Roper and Staff Officer Alanna Wakefield
This poignant occasion is known as National Police Memorial Day, a day when we remember and honour those who have laid down their lives to protect their communities and maintain law and order.
The idea for National Police Memorial Day was born out of a desire to create a dedicated occasion to honour and remember police officers who lost their lives while carrying out their duties. The first official National Police Memorial Day was held in 2004, and since then, it has grown in significance and scale. The event takes place in turn with the four UK countries and is marked by a grand memorial service attended by dignitaries, members of the police force, and the public.
In its 20th year of annual commemoration, Chief Constable Catherine Roper attended a service at St David’s Hall in Cardiff on Sunday.
Chief Constable, Catherine Roper said: “As each National Police Memorial Day comes and goes, it's a touching reminder that the commitment and dedication of police officers extend beyond their shifts and uniforms.
“It is a day to demonstrate to friends, family, and colleagues that their sacrifice protecting our communities has not been forgotten. Their selfless devotion to duty, and supreme bravery are an example to us all.
“It's a calling that demands unwavering courage and integrity, and this annual commemoration ensures that their legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of the communities they served.”
Wiltshire Police and Crime Commissioner, Philip Wilkinson said: “Policing is a challenging and demanding profession which is often unsung. Those who put their lives on the line to defend, protect and keep communities safe are an outstanding example of bravery to us all, and we proudly commemorate and honour those officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice and lost their lives while carrying out their duties.
“I would like to thank all police officers, past and present, for their service and for all they do to keep us safe.”
You can find out more by visiting www.nationalpolicememorialday.org
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