"It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died.
Rather we should thank God that such men lived."
-General George S. Patton, Jr
To fully appreciate the heroes of the present, we must recognize and remember those of the past.
Their valor and service is honored.
Their memory lives and they continue to inspire.
We thank you.
Heroes live forever.
They are fathers, husbands and sons. They are Deputies, Officers, Corporals and Sergeants. They were our colleagues, protectors and friends. However, one word fits them all… Hero. Not because of how they died, but because of how they lived.
We honor the fallen and all who continue to follow in the footsteps of law enforcement service. Members of Americas thin blue line of righteousness, protection and hope. It is a warning for the wicked and a beacon of hope for the righteous.
In cities and towns across our county, places like Modesto, Turlock, Hughson, Newman and Riverbank our law enforcement professionals have never stood taller nor cowered. We have witnessed their tireless devotion to public safety. We have been humbled by their selfless displays of courage. We have mourned when they fell in the performance of duty.
They advance when others flee. They fight when others cower. They stand up for what is right while others stand by. Common men and women inspired to perform uncommon acts of courage and compassion. Always willing to put the safety and the welfare of others above their own.
With 20 names now etched on the granite monolith at the Stanislaus County Peace Officer Memorial in Lakewood Memorial Park we stand shoulder to shoulder to honor these men who are now part of law enforcements eternal legacy of honor. But with the addition of over 200 new names each year to the national monument to the fallen, we cannot ignore the terrible price that so many have paid to help harden the protective shield of freedom and public safety.
We honor and remember those fallen heroes now and always just as we remember and honor the surviving family members and colleagues. To all of the survivors please know that you and your loved one will never be forgotten. As we view the above heroes in silent tribute, let us solemnly pledge to always remember and cherish those who have fallen, those who have been left behind and those who continue to serve.