Members of the Hunter Valley Police District gathered at Muswellbrook last week for a small ceremony to mark National Police Remembrance Day.
Inspector Jo Schultz read the history of the significant date in the Order or Service before the Hunter Valley Police District Commander, Superintendent Tracy Chapman, also gave a speech prior to the Valedictory and laying of the wreath thanking her fallen colleagues for their selfless service and sacrifice while also offering heartfelt condolences to the family members and loved ones of the officers honoured today.
Each year, September 29 holds significance for police throughout Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Samoa and the Solomon Islands.
It is a day for police to pause and honour officers whose lives have been lost while performing their duty as a police officer.
“This important day is also a time to remember police officers who have lost their lives through illness or other circumstances,” Inspector Schultz said.
National Police Remembrance Day is observed on the feast day for Saint Michael the Archangel, Patrol Saint of Police. St Michael is recognised as an archangel by the Christian, Jewish and Islamic faiths.
Inspector Schultz told The Hunter River Times that the service was usually well attended by the community but due to covid restrictions, it was not to be this year.
“We are hoping to once again involve the community at the service next year and on behalf of the local police, I thank everyone for their ongoing support,” she said.
