In honor of National Police Week, the Raleigh Police Department is slated to commemorate fallen officers through multiple memorials and community-involved ceremonies. According to an announcement on the City of Raleigh's website, this week will be dedicated to recognizing law enforcement officers from Wake County who lost their lives while on duty.
Integral to the week’s activities will be the Wake County Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Ceremony, which will be hosted at Hayes Barton Baptist Church on Monday. With the gathering of families, colleagues, and community members, the ceremony will pay homage to the sacrifice of 23 law enforcement officers, including Officer Gabriel Jesus Torres, Deputy Ned P. Byrd, and Officer Paul Andrew Hale, having been honored whose names are set to be formally acknowledged during the event.
Established by President John F. Kennedy in 1962, National Police Week includes Peace Officers Memorial Day on Thursday and endeavors to fortify the relationship between the community and its peacekeepers. In the words of Chief Boyce from the Raleigh Police Department obtained by the City of Raleigh's website, “National Police Week is not only a time of mourning, but also one of unity.” He continues, “It’s a time when we reflect on the ultimate sacrifices made and recommit ourselves to serving with integrity and courage.”
Throughout the city, various Raleigh facilities along with certain downtown buildings will be illuminating in blue, a gesture to remember those who have fallen and in support of their families. WRAL is also joining the cause, who will light its tower in blue. The Raleigh Police Department has put a call out, urging city residents to find a moment to remember those who selflessly served their community.
