Annual service started in 1933 to honor troopers who lost their lives in line of duty
The Indiana State Police honored the 46 troopers who lost their lives in the line of duty since the department was created in 1933 at the annual service Friday at the Lowell Post.
“Although we do it every year, I think it is important that this is not something that is just done to be done but is done to remember those who have actually made a sacrifice for the state of Indiana and the United States of America,” said 1st Sgt. Terrance Williams, Lowell assistant district commander. “We take this time to recognize them and we pray that you do the same.”
Williams along with Lowell District Commander Lt. Terry Gose read the names of the fallen officers in front of a large contingent of troopers, law enforcement personnel from throughout the state and family members of those officers being honored.
“We want to keep those memories alive and uphold the traditions and values that they stood for,” Gose said.
They include Trooper Scott Patrick, 27, who in December 2003 was shot and killed when dispatched to assist a stranded motorist at the Grant Street exit off Interstate 80/94 in Gary.
Patrick’s mother, Sandy, said it means a lot to their family that he is remembered every year. The Lowell Post also has a memorial for her son every December.
“He is not forgotten and that is very important,” she said.
Michigan City Police Chief Mark Swistek and some of his officers attended the memorial.
“The least we can do for the men and women who serve the Indiana State Police is to show support for them at this memorial service,” he said.
Michigan City Police will have their own memorial service to honor fallen officers on May 10.
Peace Officers Memorial Day is May 15 while the week that follows is National Police Week. Although the formal memorial is May 15, federal, state and local officers killed or disabled in the line of duty are honored throughout the country during ceremonies on various days during the month.
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