Ceremony Commemorates Peace Officer Memorial Day

For Immediate Release
May 15, 2008

[The City of Bloomington Color Guard presented the Colors to open the ceremony|image:2840,right]

Bloomington, IN - Far too often, Police Officers and Firefighters carry out their duties unheralded. Service is done quietly and for the greater good, their focus and vigilance unwavering in their provision for the public well-being in even the most extreme cases.

On Thursday, the City of Bloomington took time to thank and praise police and firefighters - here in the community and across the nation - whose willingness to risk their lives allows for safety and order in our neighborhoods. The ceremony at City Hall was an emotional one, opening with the presentation of Colors and closing with the playing of Taps for the memory of fallen all Peace Officers. Roughly 100 officers, city officials and members of the public filled the Council Chambers to participate in the event and show their support.

Police Chief Michael Diekhoff, Fire Chief Roger Kerr and Mayor Mark Kruzan recognized the four members of the Bloomington community who have lost their lives in service over the years, and Kruzan urged the public to "reflect upon our responsibilities as citizens" and thanked the families of officers for their courage and support. Brad Swain, President of the local chapter of the Fraternal Order of Police, spoke emotionally about his brother, a military firefighter killed while in service. He also thanked the officers and reiterated that the commitment of the police and firefighters was not contingent on public recognition.

Following the event, a brief ceremony was held in the Chambers to celebrate years of service and special achievements of honor by members of the Bloomington Police Department. Please join us next Tuesday, May 20 at 10:30 for a swearing-in ceremony for four new BPD officers.

[Click here for more photos of the ceremony|http://bloomington.in.gov/documents/viewDocument.php?document_id=2752;]
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