The Upper Peninsula Peace Officer’s Memorial was held Friday in Negaunee, honoring law enforcement officers from across the Upper Peninsula who died in the line of duty and recognizing the sacrifices made by them and their loved ones.
The event began with a motorcade of police vehicles departing from the Michigan State Police (MSP) Negaunee Post and traveling to Negaunee High School, where a memorial service was conducted in remembrance of the fallen officers.
The ceremony included a bagpiper, color guard detail presentation, wreath and plaque presentations, and special musical performances by the Negaunee High School chorus and band. Fallen officers from neighboring agencies in Wisconsin and Canada were also acknowledged.
The keynote address was delivered by MSP Assistant Deputy Director Inspector Patrick Daugherty, who reflected on the courage, dedication and service of the officers being remembered.
“We gather today not only to mourn their loss, but also to celebrate their lives, their courage, dedication, and to remember the examples they left behind for us to follow,” said Insp. Daugherty. “We are joined today by the many families, friends, and colleagues who served with these officers. To the spouses, children, parents and friends, thank you for being here and please know that we honor your sacrifice alongside theirs. We stand with you today and every day.”
Insp. Daugherty also referenced remarks from former President Ronald Reagan during his address. “President Reagan once said, ‘Those who say that we’re in a time when there are no heroes, they just don’t know where to look.’ Well, we don’t need to look very far. The names that we honor today are those heroes,” he said. “They put service above themselves, faced uncertainty with courage and chose a profession where every shift carried a risk. They accepted these risks for the opportunity to protect, help, and make a difference in their communities.”
MSP thanks Upper Peninsula community members for their continued support of local law enforcement and appreciates everyone who helped make this year’s memorial service possible, including the staff and students of Negaunee High School.
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