Anniston, AL – The Ninth Annual Alabama Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony was held today at Centennial Memorial Park in Anniston, honoring the brave officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
The ceremony commenced with an invocation by Reverend Grinstead, followed by Calhoun County Circuit Clerk Kim McCarson recognizing distinguished guests. Local Honor Guards performed the Posting of the Colors, and Judge Alice Martin delivered a heartfelt rendition of the National Anthem. The welcome address was conducted by Ken Rollins, setting the tone for the solemn event. The ceremony featured music by the Alabama Law Enforcement Memorial Pipes and Drums, adding a poignant soundtrack to the proceedings.
Although Oxford Police Chief Bill Partridge had planned to introduce Governor Kay Ivey, she was unable to attend due to inclement weather in Montgomery. Governor Ivey’s office did send a copy of her remarks to the Calhoun Journal and they were also read by Chief Partridge during the ceremony and can be here in the full recording below. In summary she highlighted the ongoing sacrifices of Alabama’s law enforcement officers. Governor Ivey noted the tragic addition of more names to the memorial each year, bringing the total to over 600 officers lost in the line of duty throughout the state’s history. She emphasized the vital role of the 15,000 officers who protect the public daily and the collective support from 377 police departments, 67 sheriff’s offices, and 15 state agencies. She also acknowledged the grief experienced by the families and colleagues of the fallen and reaffirmed Alabama’s commitment to honoring law enforcement officers’ sacrifices, not just on Peace Officers Memorial Day, but every day. The Governor specifically honored Officers Garrett Crumby, Kimberly Sickafoose, and Carlos Taylor, who lost their lives in the past year, and expressed prayers for their families and departments.
Senator Tommy Tuberville, in contact with the Calhoun Journal through his Regional Director Mike Raita, who was in attendance, shared, “America’s brave men and women in blue wake up every day prepared to sacrifice their own safety in service to fellow Americans they may not even know. Police officers are the first line of defense for Alabamians and families across the country. Yet today, Democrats have turned our police into national punching bags. Democrats’ attacks on our police are absolutely repugnant and must be condemned by every American, especially those in public office. Police are some of the best people in this country. Now, more than ever, they deserve our gratitude and support.”
Chief Partridge addressed the Calhoun Journal, emphasizing the significance of the day: “Today is a time to honor the brave officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in service of their communities in Alabama. Unfortunately, we added three names to the memorial wall: Officer Garrett Crumby of the Huntsville Police Department, Officer Kimberly Sickafoose of the Alabama Port Authority Police Department, and Officer Carlos Taylor of the Montgomery Police Department. We honor them and the over 540 others who have made the ultimate sacrifice in our state.”
Sheriff Matthew Wade, who played the bagpipes at the ceremony, shared the origins of the Alabama Law Enforcement Memorial Pipes and Drums and the importance of the event. “This all started in 2007 with a guy named David Richmond. After attending the FBI Academy, I developed a desire to learn to play the bagpipes. David Richmond taught me, and we formed an Honor Guard, putting on the first Memorial at Centennial Park. The memorial is now the designated state memorial for law enforcement. The main reason we have this is because of the names on that wall and their families. This week, Memorial Week, ensures we honor those who have sacrificed and let their families know we haven’t forgotten them.”
Senator Keith Kelley also spoke to the Calhoun Journal, highlighting the critical nature of the memorial: “Having a son who was once in law enforcement and having considered the field myself, I understand the sacrifices made by officers and their families. It’s the least we can do to honor them.”
Anniston Chief Nick Bowels stressed the importance of continual remembrance: “It is important to remember those officers who gave their lives, especially during Police Week, and remind their families they are not forgotten.”
Jacksonville State University’s Michael Barton echoed these sentiments, stating, “It is an honor to be here today for our officers and for the community to participate in honoring the fallen officers and their families.”
Piedmont Police Chief Nathan Johnson emphasized the touching nature of the event: “Every year, we memorialize those who have fallen in the line of duty. Seeing the families and community support is incredibly important.”
The ceremony stands as a testament to the dedication and sacrifice of Alabama’s law enforcement officers and serves as a reminder of the ongoing gratitude and support owed to their families.
