BISMARCK, ND (trfnews.i234.me)
Remembering North Dakota’s Fallen Heroes
In a solemn ceremony at the State Capitol in Bismarck, North Dakota, the bravery and sacrifice of 69 fallen police officers will be honored and remembered. This poignant memorial service, scheduled for Thursday, May 9th at 7:00 p.m., will take place in Memorial Hall, a place of significance inside the state capital.
Adding Names to the State Peace Officer Memorial
Among the honored will be three courageous law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Their names will be etched into the annals of the State Peace Officer Memorial:
- Burley County Sheriff Charles H. McCarthy (1874)
- Fargo Police Officer Jake R. Wen (2023)
- Mercer County Deputy Sheriff Paul S. Martin (2023)
Distinguished Speakers and Ceremony Participants
The memorial service will feature notable speakers, including Governor Doug Burgum, Attorney General Drew Wrigley, Supreme Court Justice Douglas Bahr, Burley County Sheriff Kelly Leben, Fargo Police Chief David Zabowski, and Mercer County Chief Deputy Mark Schmidt. These esteemed individuals will pay tribute to the fallen officers, honoring their commitment to serving and protecting their communities.
Master of Ceremonies and Roll Call
Captain Steven Gutek, President of the North Dakota Peace Officers Association, will serve as the Master of Ceremonies, guiding attendees through this solemn event. A chaplain from The Crisis Care Chaplaincy will officiate the ceremony and read the Roll Call of the fallen officers, ensuring each hero is remembered with reverence and respect.
Honoring with Tradition: Taps and Bagpipes
As a poignant tribute to the fallen officers, retired Special Agent Dwayne Stanley and retired North Dakota Highway Patrol Sergeant Jerry Seander will play Taps, a haunting melody that echoes the sacrifice of those who have gone before us. Additionally, retired Cass County Chief Deputy Mickey Harmon will honor the fallen with the stirring sound of the bagpipes, a timeless symbol of remembrance and reverence.
A Symbol of Support: Lighting the Thin Blue Line
In a gesture of solidarity and respect for all law enforcement, past and present, the State Capitol windows will be illuminated with a Thin Blue Line on Thursday and Friday evening. This symbolic gesture serves as a visual reminder of the unwavering support and gratitude felt towards those who dedicate their lives to protecting and serving their communities.
Conclusion: Honoring the Legacy of Courage
As the sun sets on Thursday evening, and the echoes of Taps and bagpipes fade into the night, let us remember and honor the legacy of courage and sacrifice left behind by North Dakota’s fallen officers. Their names may be etched in stone, but their spirit lives on in the hearts of those they swore to protect.