LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — Local law enforcement agencies came together Wednesday to honor the service and sacrifice of officers across Allen County.
The Lima Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 21 hosted its annual memorial service, recognizing 11 officers who died in the line of duty while protecting their communities.
Leaders from across the region spoke at the event, including Third District Court of Appeals Judge Juergen Waldick and Lima Mayor Sharetta Smith, who issued a proclamation recognizing National Police Week. Organizers say the memorial not only remembers those who made the ultimate sacrifice, but also thanks the officers who continue to serve.
Organizers say the memorial not only remembers those who made the ultimate sacrifice, but also thanks the officers who continue to serve.
“We’re remembering those who aren’t, because those who are here today have to follow in their footsteps,” said Alan Mefferd, chaplain of Fraternal Order of Police Lima Lodge 21. “They chose this career. They know what the consequences can be with a misstep. They know what the consequences can be, even if you do everything right. But they’re doing that so we can be asleep, safe in our beds, while the good men out there are trying to protect us from those evil people that want to do us harm.”
National Police Week is observed May 10 through May 16 this year.
