News Summary
The 40th annual North Carolina Peace Officers’ Memorial Day ceremony was held at Multiply Church, honoring law enforcement officers who lost their lives in the line of duty. Eight names were added to The North Carolina Honor Roll, including Samuel Poloche and Michael Horan, highlighting the sacrifices made by these individuals. The ceremony included presentations, a wreath-laying, and speeches from community leaders, emphasizing the resilience and commitment of law enforcement and the importance of supporting their families.
Concord, N.C. – The 40th annual North Carolina Peace Officers’ Memorial Day ceremony took place at Multiply Church, recognizing the memory and sacrifice of law enforcement officers who lost their lives while serving the community. This year, eight names were added to The North Carolina Honor Roll, particularly honoring those who died in 2024.
This solemn occasion included a presentation of colors, a Memorial Honor Guard, and a 21-gun salute. The families of the fallen officers were present, receiving flags in remembrance of their loved ones, underscoring the emotional weight of the day as they honored the sacrifices made by their family members in the line of duty.
Among those honored was Samuel Poloche, who tragically lost his life alongside three fellow officers while serving a warrant in Charlotte in April 2024. His wife, Cielo Poloche, expressed gratitude towards the community for their support during this difficult time for her family. Additionally, the event recognized Greensboro Police Officer Michael Horan, who was shot and killed on December 23, 2024. Horan had a commendable career, being celebrated for his courageous service with both the police and the Coast Guard.
The ceremony acknowledged a total of eight names added to The North Carolina Honor Roll, which included CMPD Officer Joshua Eyer, Deputy U.S. Marshal Thomas Weeks, and N.C. Department of Adult Corrections officers Aiden Elliott and Samuel Poloche, highlighting a particularly tragic April 2024 incident that resulted in multiple fatalities among law enforcement members.
The North Carolina Peace Officers’ Memorial Day serves as a poignant reminder of the risks that law enforcement officers face daily. CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings described the service as a “somber celebration” of the lives of those who paid the ultimate price while fulfilling their duty to protect the public.
The event featured a wreath-laying ceremony and speeches from notable guest speakers, including Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles and U.S. Attorney Dena King. The ceremony also included a slideshow commemorating over 40 officers who have died in the line of duty since the 1800s, further emphasizing the long-standing tradition of honoring these heroes.
Noteworthy was the presence of Steve Wilks, head coach of the San Francisco 49ers and former coach of the Carolina Panthers, who delivered remarks at the memorial. He emphasized the values of accountability, commitment, and trust that should be respected within law enforcement. Wilks also encouraged the community to recognize and support law enforcement officers who take on the perilous responsibility of ensuring public safety each day.
The Peace Officers’ Memorial Day ceremony not only serves as a tribute to the fallen but also as a rallying point for the community to come together in respect and solidarity with those who protect and serve. It offers a moment for reflection and gratitude for the unwavering dedication shown by law enforcement officers and is a vital component in fostering a supportive environment for the families left behind.
This year’s commemoration, led by accreditation policy manager Julynn Washington of the N.C. Justice Academy, reiterated the significance of honoring fallen officers and offered a platform for families to share their grief and seek comfort from one another and the community.
The ceremony underlines a crucial aspect of law enforcement, reminding everyone of the risks officers take, often sacrificing their lives for the safety of others. As the community continues to pay tribute to these brave men and women, it reaffirms a collective commitment to honor their memories and support their families moving forward.
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Additional Resources
- WCNC: North Carolina’s 40th Annual Peace Officers Memorial Day Ceremony
- Wikipedia: Peace Officers’ Memorial Day
- WFMY News 2: Late Greensboro Police Officer Michael Horan Honored
- Google Search: Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony
- WSOC TV: Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Hold Memorial for Fallen Officers
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Memorial Day
- Iredell Free News: Four Fallen Officers Honored at Peace Officers Memorial Day Ceremony
- Google News: Law Enforcement Officer Memorials
