A somber assembly of law enforcement agencies gathered to pay their respects to fallen comrades on Peace Officers Memorial Day. According to a report from Rockwall County's official website, the Police Officer Memorial Commemoration was held at the Rest Haven Funeral Home on May 15, where the local community reflected on the sacrifices made by officers.
The ceremony was initiated by Chief Kirk Aldridge of the Royse City Police Department, who spoke to the crowd about the significance of National Police Week, a period set aside to honor those who have died in the line of duty. The past year saw 165 officers lost to their service, a slight increase from the 157 in 2023. Four of the 25 officers who have fallen this year hailed from Texas, indicating the daily risks these individuals face.
As part of the memorial service, Chaplain Brad Bassett of the Rockwall Police Department led the attendees in prayer. This was followed by a color presentation by the combined Honor Guards from the Royse City Police Department and the Rockwall Sheriff’s Office, and the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.
Dignitaries around the county, such as Rockwall County Judge Frank New, Sheriff Terry Garrett, and Felicia Oliphant from the District Attorney’s Office, addressed the assembly. They talked about the dedication of all law enforcement officers and support staff, noting their commitment to public safety. When the names of each fallen officer were read aloud, the somber sound of a bell tolled in their memory. The event ended with "Taps," performed by Charles Aldridge, and a final prayer for the safety of those still serving and the families of the fallen.
