By Gina Yarbrough
SAN DIEGO–In recognition of “National Police Week,” the San Diego Police Department, in cooperation with the San Diego Police Officers Association, sponsored a memorial tribute and wreath ceremony in front of the police department’s memorial monument.
Police officials and two dozen police officers attended the ceremony, which was held in front of the San Diego Police Department’s headquarters. They gathered to honor the department’s 30 officers who gave their lives in the line of duty serving the community.
Officials say the tribute gives officers and the community an opportunity to show support and honor fallen officers and their families.
“It’s a time to reflect and look back at those officers who have given their lives in defense of this great country and the cities we protect everyday,” said Police Chief William Landowne. “It’s a chance to remember that there’s still heroes in America in difficult times.”
National Police Week honors the men and women at the local, state and federal level who serve on the frontlines protecting the safety and security of American communities.
“We will never forget their commitment to protecting and serving the citizens of San Diego,” said San Diego Police Officers Association president Brian Marvel. “The legacy of our fallen heroes will live for eternity and we cannot emphasize enough how eternally grateful we are for their sacrifice.”
The San Diego Police Department’s Honored Guard carried the wreath and placed it in front of the memorial. Following the placement of the wreath, officers bowed their heads in a moment of silence.
Traffic Division Motorcycle Officer Bob Van Wulven is the man behind the memorial tribute. Van Wulven, who sits on the regional committee for Police Officers Memorial Services, created and organized the wreath ceremony to honor local officers who died in the line of duty.
“This is an effort to keep their memories alive,” said Van Wulven. He said future memorials will be held on a yearly basis.
