The Tampa Police Department is set to honor members of its force who have made the ultimate sacrifice. This year's Tampa Police Memorial Ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, promising to be a solemn event that pays tribute to thirty-two officers who’ve laid down their lives for the community. According to an announcement on City of Tampa's official website, the ceremony will be held at 7:00 p.m. in front of the Monument to Fallen Officers at One Police Center.
The event is a tradition that brings together both the local community and members of the police force to remember those who’ve been lost. Mayor Jane Castor and Chief Lee Bercaw will jointly lead this tribute, which will also extend to honor all law enforcement officers nationwide who have perished in the line of duty. The public is encouraged to come forward to join the police in remembrance. The ceremony is set to include the Tampa Police Honor Guard and a 21-Gun Salute, amongst other commemorative acts.
Highlights of the ceremony will feature elements deeply rooted in law enforcement traditions — such as the presence of a Riderless Horse, and the music of St. Andrew's Pipes & Drums of Tampa Bay. A poignant display that seeks to to evoke a sense of communal respect and recognition for the lives given in service. The Tampa Police Aviation Unit will also participate with a flyover, as detailed in the City of Tampa's official announcement.
These ceremonies are an important part of reflecting on the risks associated with law enforcement careers. Since the first recorded police death in 1786, more than 24,000 law enforcement officers have been killed in the line of duty nationally.
