Pocatello holds peace officer memorial for fallen officers

It’s National Police Week and as part of that, Monday was Peace Officers Memorial Day. A flag raising ceremony to honor fallen officers was held at the Idaho State Police headquarters in Pocatello Monday morning. All law enforcement divisions in Pocatello were represented.

The honor guard was made up of members of the Bannock County Sheriff’s Office, Idaho State Police, and Pocatello and Chubbuck police departments.

The Gate City Singers sang the national anthem. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Fica spoke about how sometimes citizens take the protection of police officers for granted. He believes they are often the unsung heroes and so it’s important to honor them. That’s why he said he was glad to be a part of the celebration.

“They continually amaze me with their professionalism, they amaze me with the quality of what they do and the commitment of what they do,” Fica said.

Capt. Eric Dayley of the Idaho State Police said it’s great when citizens recognize those who gave their lives in the line of duty.

“I think it’s very important that we, as a citizenry, show gratitude for those who have paid the ultimate price by giving their lives in service of their fellow man,” Dayley said.

National Peace Officers Memorial Day was first signed into law by President John F. Kennedy on Oct. 1, 1962.