Hosted by the Fraternal Order of Police, the ceremony began with a memorial parade leading to the courthouse grounds featuring officers on motorcycles, honor guards, bag pipe players, drummers, uniformed personnel, survivors, families and guests.
The ceremony attendees included elected officials, dignitaries, community leaders and representatives from 28 federal, state and local law enforcement agencies that operate in Orange County. Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs, Orange County District 3 Commissioner Pete Clarke and District 5 Commissioner Emily Bonilla attended the solemn event.
“One way to honor these and all law enforcement officers is to do everything possible to support their families, and to remember that each and every day the brave men and women of law enforcement leave their homes – knowing that they may not return – and risk their lives to keep us safe.”
During the ceremony, the names of 48 fallen officers – from 1870 to 2017 – we called in memoriam. Upon their name being called, a rose was placed on a ceremonial wreath representing their life and legacy. Additionally, family and special guests shared tribute to their fallen hero with letters and musical performances.
Photo Caption: The 36th Annual Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony was held on May 3 at the Orange County Courthouse to honor the lives and legacies of the region’s fallen law enforcement officers.
