WPD honors memory of fallen law enforcement

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Wilmington Police honored the men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

The Wilmington Police Department held their Annual Peace Officers Memorial Service Thursday. New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, Wrightsville Beach Police, Carolina Beach Police and the NC Division of Prisons were also there.

The service was held outside the police station at the memorial wall. Officers honored those who have died as well as their families.

One man said he has been coming to this ceremony for the past six years to remember his uncle.

“As long as were able to be here we will continue to be at this ceremony. I think it’s a great honor for the people, all fallen police officers and everybody that’s working presently in law enforcement,” Gerald Branch said.

At the ceremony families placed a dozen roses and listed the names for the fallen officers.

Since the first known line of duty death in 1791, more than 21,000 US law enforcement officers have made the ultimate sacrifice.

Last year, 128 law enforcement officers were killed in the line of duty.

Today, and every day, we honor those who gave their all. pic.twitter.com/KbZOWz5Slx

— Wilmington Police (@WilmingtonPD) May 10, 2018