Remembering the Fallen, Honoring the Service

Ocean County honored the memory of those heroes who have fallen in the line of duty and recognized all those who put themselves at risk in the fight against crime, violence and terrorism during the 35th annual Ocean County Law Enforcement Memorial Day Observance on May 15, at the Police Memorial at Ocean County Park, Lakewood. Berkeley Township Police Chief Kevin H. Santucci, representing the Ocean County Chiefs of Police Association, served as the master of ceremonies on behalf of Retired Police Chief William Dikun, who is the Chief Police Instructor at the Ocean County Police Academy, and Ocean County Commissioner Director Frank Sadeghi gave the keynote address. “Today is not only about remembrance, but about honoring lives of service,” said Sadeghi. “Each name on this memorial represents someone who chose a life of purpose, someone who protected others, often at great personal risk.” Sadeghi was joined by Ocean County Commissioner Sam Ellenbogen presenting the Ocean County Board of Commissioners proclamation to Chief Santucci. Police Chaplain Sergeant Kristopher Burke of the Barnegat Township Police Department gave the Invocation and Benediction. Barnegat Township Police Chief Jason D. Carroll read the names of the 20 officers listed on the Police Memorial while recruits of Basic Police Class 125 placed a wreath at the monument and family members of the fallen officers placed roses in memory of their loved ones. Also participating in the ceremony were honor guards and motorcycle squads, along with members of the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department and numerous representatives of law enforcement agencies. The Ocean County Vocational Technical School Performing Arts Academy Vocal Ensemble, under the direction of Mary Kenny, sang the National Anthem and provided patriotic songs, and the Point Pleasant Borough High School Panther Concert Band, under the direction of Scott Visco performed songs throughout the ceremony.