Remembering fallen officers

Yesterday, I attended the annual ceremony at the Police Memorial in Waterfront Park, commemorating the 26 officers who have died in the course of their duties in our city. It was a moving tribute, fittingly held under gloomy skies in persistent rain.

This morning I was returning home from taking Ali to school, when I noticed the Sheriff’s honor guard assembling at the memorial to Deputy Sheriff Ernest Loll at SW 35th and Arnold. I covered this annual event here, last year. So I hurried home to change out of my jeans, and returned to participate in the ceremony. I learned more of the story of the bravery of Sheriff Loll (rhymes with doll) from the officers, and about May 15 being National Peace Officers Memorial Day. The day itself is surrounded by events all week in various states, cities, and counties, to allow surviving relatives and officers to attend more than one ceremony. I’m told that tomorrow is the only day apart from Memorial Day, when by US statute flags fly at half staff.