THREE small candles flickered in Griffith’s St Alban Cathedral on Friday morning in a touching show of respect for police officers, who in the last 12 months, lost their lives in the line of duty.
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Griffith officers, family and friends watched as those lights helped mark Police Remembrance Day.
Superintendent Michael Rowan said the day was an opportunity for the community to remember those officers who have made the supreme sacrifice.
“That sacrifice must be remembered not only by police but by family, friends and ultimately the community,” Superintendent Rowan said.
During the service in Griffith the Very Reverend Robert Harris told members of the police force that it was also a chance to thank God for the lives of the dearly departed fellow officers and all that they contributed towards upholding peace and safety.
“Keeping their memory in this way enables us to draw strength from example and inspiration,” he said.
Later a candle was lit by Carla Webber as each name was read from the honour roll by Detective Inspector Paul Smith.
Three police officers have died while performing their duty in the last 12 months.
A wreath was placed in front of the candles by Superintendent Rowan as the words ‘May they rest in peace’ whispered around the cathedral.
The day was also a time to remember police officers who have lost their lives through illness and other circumstances.
National Police Remembrance Day is observed on the feast day for Saint Michael the Archangel, patron saint of police.
It was first held on September 29, 1989 and each year is held on this day. This year, as the date fell on a weekend, services were held on Friday, September 27.
