Devon and Cornwall Police pay tribute to officers who've died in the line of duty
Memorial trees have been planted and police stations are being illuminated blue
Devon and Cornwall Police are paying tribute to officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
Our force has planted a memorial tree at Bodmin police station and are also illuminating the HQ building in blue.
It comes after a dedication ceremony was held for the new UK Police Memorial at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, earlier this week to remember those brave officers and colleagues who have served their communities and tragically lost their lives.
A tree was planted in the memorial garden at the Police Headquarters in Middlemoor, Exeter.
PCC Alison Hernandez and ACC Julie Fielding also planted the one at Bodmin.
There will also be an illumination on to the front of Middlemoor and Bodmin Police station until Sunday 1st August, in memory of officers and staff who have lost their lives.
Chief Constable ShaunSawyer attended the national ceremony alongside a bereaved family of one of the Force’s officers. Members of the royal family, the prime minister and other politicians were also in attendance.
He said: “This commemoration marks our tribute to the brave officers and colleagues who have served their communities and tragically lost their lives. We will continue to remember them and their selfless devotion to duty, as they leave behind a lasting legacy.
“Locally, it is important that we also mark this important occasion which is why we have held tree planting ceremonies in Devon and Cornwall.”
“It’s a real honour to be marking this moment by planting the memorial tree at Bodmin Police Station.
"This landmark will live on for generations and act as a constant reminder of the sacrifices of those who came before us.
“It will leave a legacy for Devon and Cornwall and ensure that those who paid the ultimate price will not be forgotten.”
Alison Hernandez, Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly
The dedication ceremony of the new UK Police Memorial was a one-off event on 28th July at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire.
Its purpose is to remember policing colleagues who have died and honour the courage and sacrifice of those members of the UK Police Service who have dedicated their lives to protecting others.
In light of public health in respect of Covid-19, staff, officers, and volunteers were encouraged not to gather, but instead watched the national ceremony via a livestream link.