Every May, during National Police Month, law officers are remembered for their ultimate sacrifice.
The 2017 Fresno County Peace Officers Memorial Ceremony took place Thursday, May 4th in Downtown Fresno’s Courthouse Park.
Fresno County Sheriff Margaret Mims, Police Chief Jerry Dyer, and District Attorney Lisa Smittcamp were among many there to honor Sergeant Rod Lucas and all the other California officers who died while serving their communities.
The names of 60 men and women have been etched into the granite face of the Fresno County Peace Officers Memorial, including Sgt. Lucas who died in the line of duty on October 31, 2016.
A 20 year veteran of the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, Sgt, Lucas began his career in Fresno in September of 1996. His death marks the 12th line of duty death at the Sheriff’s Office since it was established in 1856.
Click below to listen to the Peace Officers Memorial Ceremony story by KMJ’s Liz Kern:
Earlier in the day, Sgt. Rod Lucas’ wife and children were present as Fresno County Sheriff Margaret Mims and her staff held an End of Watch Streamer Ceremony in his honor near the front steps of Sheriff’s Headquarters.
During National Police Week, many law enforcement officers are wearing black bands over their badges to honor those who died while serving their respective communities.
Click below to listen to the End of Watch Streamer story by KMJ’s Liz Kern:
