Local Authorities Assemble for Police Memorial Service in Oxford
In a momentous event, all major law enforcement agencies in Lafayette-Oxford-University gathered to honor and remember fallen officers at the annual Peace Officers Memorial Service. Held on the picturesque lawn of the Lafayette County Courthouse on May 16th, the event provided a solemn yet supportive environment for officers, their families, and the local community.
A Day to Reminisce and Reflect
Infusing the atmosphere with an air of deep reverence, Circuit Court Judge Gray Tollison, the guest speaker for the occasion, illuminated the origins of this special day. “More than six decades ago, the United States Congress authorized President John Kennedy to declare May 15th of each year as Peace Officer Memorial Day,” Tollison expounded, “This day is designated to honor law enforcement officers who have valiantly lost their lives in the pursuit of their duty – safeguarding citizens and our communities.”
No Casualties, A Year of Safety
In an announcement that brought apparent relief to the assembly, representatives from Lafayette County Sheriff’s Department, Oxford Police Department, University Police Department, Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks, and the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics reported no casualties or serious injuries within their ranks over the past year. However, the solemnity of the occasion was underlined by the U.S. Marshals Service reporting of four tragic losses – Officers Joshua Eyer, Sam Poloche, Alden Elliot, and Thomas Weeks who were killed in the line of duty in Charlotte, North Carolina on April 29, 2024.
Community Support for Law Enforcement
Lafayette County Sheriff Joey East, attending his fourth annual service as sheriff, highlighted the significance of such ceremonies in boosting the morale of law enforcement officers. “It does a lot for law enforcement to know we are cared about, we are loved and what they do matters,” East stated. East also underscored the importance of acknowledging the sacrifice of fallen officers. “This event ensures that their memory lives on, loved and revered by the community,” he added.
A Fitting Tribute to Those Departed
The service concluded with the Oxford Honor Guard’s poignant 21-gun salute and the playing of taps, a haunting reminder of the ultimate sacrifice made by those officers who have laid down their lives in seeking to uphold law and order. This memorial service, while paying homage to those departed, also served as a stark reminder of the inherent risks and challenges faced by these brave men and women every day.
