Dozens Of Fallen Police Officers, Firefighters Honored In Long Beach
LONG BEACH (CBS) — Members of the Long Beach Police and Fire Departments paid tribute on Tuesday to their colleagues who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
Families of 28 police officers and 13 firefighters attended the morning memorial service held at the Police and Fire Memorial on Chestnut Avenue south of Broadway.
City officials and staff members including Mayor Bob Foster, Police Chief Jim McDonnell and Interim Fire Chief Mike Sarjeant were also on hand to participate in the service, which included individual recognition of fallen officers and firefighters, a bagpiper performing "Amazing Grace", and a 21-Gun Salute.
Officials read the names of the fallen police officers and rang a bell 13 times for each firefighter lost.
"I want to thank you, I want to give our sincerest condolences to all the families, but also thank you for the service of your loved ones and for their sacrifice," said Mayor Bob Foster.
An officer who lost a battle with cancer and two firefighters who died from illness last year were also recognized for their service.
