MERIDIAN, Idaho — Law enforcement agencies and community members gathered Wednesday night at the Idaho Peace Officers' Memorial in Meridian to honor officers throughout the state who have died in the line of duty.
"Their lives were all too brief," Boise Police Chief Ron Winegar said. "It is our vow and our honor to remember them, their families every day, and especially during this special time of year."
Ceremonies at the memorial on the Idaho State Police campus started more than two decades ago, according to Sheldon Kelley, ISP lieutenant colonel and memorial board president.
Wednesday's ceremony consisted of prayer, singing and laying two wreaths.
"We lay these wreaths in honor of the sacred sacrifice of the officers whose names are etched on this memorial to show their immortality, their strength of life, and the giving of their lives and protection of others," Winegar said while addressing the crowd.
There are 74 names on the walls, including police officers and sheriff's deputies dating back to when Idaho became a state. This year, he said one Idaho police officer from Post Falls died while on duty.
Like others, Kelley said he knew some of the people listed.
"It's important for me personally that we remember those that have made that sacrifice," Kelley said. "We always say we'll never forget, and this is how we can live up to that motto."
Nampa Police Chief Joe Huff agrees.
"It's really important that we show up and show respect to the officers that have lost their lives in the line of duty, and also for the families that have lost loved ones," Huff said.
The memorial is open to the public all year. However, there are three formal events to honor the fallen each year — two in May during National Police Week and the wreath ceremony in December.
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