Police remember their fallen heroes
May. 17, 2011
Speaking to a crowd at a memorial ceremony Tuesday for law enforcement officers, Louisiana State Police Capt. Kevin Reeves quoted an author's description of a hero.
"The writer, Raymond Chandler, once penned, 'Down these mean streets a man must go who is not, himself, mean. Who is neither tarnished, nor afraid,'" Reeves said. "I'd like to think Chandler had every law enforcement officer in mind as he wrote those words."
The Second Annual Northeast Louisiana Police Week continued with the ceremonial wreath-laying at the "Fallen Officers" Memorial. After a prayer and performance of the National Anthem, Reeves, commander of Troop F, spoke to those in attendance.
"When I was promoted to commander at Troop F, Col. (Mike) Edmondson (LSP Commander) told me to ensure the relationships were formed with other area law enforcement agencies," Reeves said. "I told him northeastern Louisiana residents already benefitted from that."
Monroe Mayor Jamie Mayo said the ceremony of the wreath-laying was an important component of Police Week.
"We're delighted as a law enforcement agency to invite other agencies from around the area to honor those who have fallen," Mayo said.
Monroe police chief Quentin Holmes said it was important to take a moment and remember the sacrifice law enforcement officers make every day.
"Sometimes, its easy for us to forget about those who pay the ultimate sacrifice," Holmes said. "This is a chance for us to pause and reflect on the price paid by our law enforcement officers."
Holmes, who organized the first Northeast Louisiana Police Week last year, said he was humbled to serve his community.
West Monroe police chief Christopher Elg said Tuesday's ceremony was only one of possibly thousands taking place across the country this week.
"Anywhere in the country, there are communities gathering for events like this," Elg said. "It's nice to know there are those thinking about us officers. It's good that agencies can get together like this and remember the sacrifices we make."
Every year, Concerns of Police Survivors, a not-for-profit organization, holds National Police Week in Washington. NELA Police Week is intended to mirror the national event.
Reeves summed up the camaraderie between law enforcement agencies.
"Regardless whether we wear some shade of blue, gray, khaki or green, we're a family," Reeves said.