Wichita Falls law enforcement and city leaders gathered Monday for an annual memorial ceremony honoring fallen officers as part of National Police Week.
Flags flew at half-staff outside Wichita Falls Police Department headquarters as officers, city officials and community members attended the ceremony.
“In a world where criticism often comes quickly, today reminds us that behind every badge is a human being,” Wichita Falls Mayor Tim Short said.
The event recognized officers from Wichita Falls and across the country who have died in the line of duty. According to department officials, more than 24,500 U.S. law enforcement officers have been killed in the line of duty since 1786, including seven members of the Wichita Falls Police Department.
Interim Police Chief Mitch Bates said the turnout reflected support from the community.
“This is what we do, this is who we are. We're supposed to be here to protect and, in particular, to serve our community,” Bates said. “It means so much to the men and women of any agency here in Wichita Falls to have that support in the community, and that's what's shown up today.”
During the ceremony, a bell was rung for each of Wichita Falls' fallen officers.
“There's a lot that comes with this job. So, I hope they understand the reality of this job and the dangers of it, but also know that they do have officers within this community that care about them very deeply,” WFPD Officer Miguel Trujillo said.
Short closed the ceremony by emphasizing the personal cost behind each loss.
“Husband, wife, mother, father, friend, or neighbor. These officers stood between danger and the people that they serve. Because of that, Wichita Falls is safer, stronger, and better,” Short said.