MERIDIAN, Idaho — A 16-year veteran of an Eastern Idaho police department died while responding to a call in May of last year. Sgt. Kent Donald Swanson suffered a fatal heart attack.
On Thursday, Swanson's name was added to the Idaho Peace Officer Memorial in Meridian, as hundreds gathered to pay their respects and honor the law enforcement officers who've died in the line of duty.
"We are here to recognize their courage and sacrifice,” Idaho Attorney General Lawrence Wasden said.
This year, the Idaho Peace Officer foundation added the 72nd name to the memorial.
"On the night of May 21st, 2018, the Shelley Police Department suffered a great loss," Shelley Police Chief Rod Muhler said. "I truly believe he had two loves, he had his family and his job."
Swanson's widow, Shaney Swanson and his son Keegan were in Meridian to honor him.
"It was the best honor I never wanted,” Shaney Swanson said. "He would think it was the coolest, he was all about being a police officer, all about the ceremony and taking care of people. He would love all of this."
The wreath for Swanson was placed at the memorial by officers he served with. Afterwards, his widow and his son unveiled his name to the crowd.
"I was missing him, I was thinking he would think it was so cool, and I was so grateful Keegan was with me and grateful we had two kids together,” Swanson said.
After remarks from Wasden and Gov. Brad Little, the names of each of the 72 officers who died in the line of duty were read aloud. Starting with V. Walter Coffin of the Boise County Sheriff’s office who died on April, 18th 1883.
A rose was laid down to honor each for their service. The last name to be read was the most recent addition - Kent Donald Swanson.
"We lost an officer, a sergeant and more importantly a great friend,” Muhler said.
In addition to the Idaho Peace Officer Memorial, Sgt. Swanson's name was also added on to the national memorial in Washington D.C.