LONDON, Ohio — Law enforcement officials from across the state gathered Thursday to remember those killed in the line of duty. The State of Ohio had the 34th annual Ohio Peace Officers Memorial Ceremony at the Ohio Peace Officers Training Academy on May 5.
What You Need To Know
- The State of Ohio had the 34th annual Ohio Peace Officers Memorial Ceremony
- This year, they honored 814 officers; the amount of those who have died in the line of duty since 1823
- Members of the Ohio Peace Officer Training Commission, law enforcement officers and Attorney General Dave Yost spoke to the crowd
This year, they honored 814 officers; the amount of those who have died in the line of duty since 1823.
“It really is like a second family,” said Summer Bartek.
Bartek’s twin brother, Shane, was among the five officers added to the memorial this year. The Cleveland Police officer was killed in an attempted carjacking last year.
“The bagpipes brought back memories of his funeral, but it’s amazing to see the impact he and the other officers obviously made,” said Summer Bartek.
Members of the Ohio Peace Officer Training Commission, law enforcement officers and Attorney General Dave Yost spoke to the crowd. Yost shared stories about the impact of law enforcement, trying to comfort the families.
“It is the willingness of our law enforcement officers that put themselves in harm’s way to shield others that draws us here today,” said Yost.
While the ceremony won’t bring Summer’s brother back, his name joins all the other fallen officers in stone — she said it’s comforting to know he’ll always be remembered.
“It’s in stone,” said Summer Bartek. “It’s forever. So when I have kids, I’ll be able to bring them here and show them their uncle.”
Toledo Police Department Officer Brandon Stalker, Hamilton County Sheriff’s Deputy Donald Gilreath III, Ohio Natural Resources Officer Jason Lagore and Nelsonville Police Department Officer Scott Dawley were the four other fallen officers honored.
