This week is National Police Weekwith Peace Officer Memorial Day on May 15th. President Biden directed entities across the country to fly their flags at half-staff. He also called upon Americans to observe the week with appropriate ceremonies and activities during a year of turmoil. Siouxland Public Media’s Sheila Brummer takes us to one event uniting several generations of law officers for a common cause.
A few dozen law enforcement officers, instructors, and police science students left Western Iowa Tech Community College Monday morning on a mission.
“It should be roughly 4.62 miles. That is our goal.”
A precise distance representing the badge number of a fallen member of the Iowa State Patrol, 4-6-2.
“We are here to recognize Trooper Jim Smith and any other officer who has died in the line of duty.”
That is second-year police science student Chase Alexander. He joined the group showing solidarity for Sergeant Smith shot and killed during a violent standoff last month in Grundy Center southwest of Waterloo.
“I understand there will be a lot of risks with this job, but there is nothing that beats the sister and brotherhood and this family bond that we have.”
“We are honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice.”
Joining the group on the trek from the college to a law enforcement memorial in downtown Sioux City, former Woodbury County Sheriff Dave Drew who retired at the end of the year after almost 40-years of service.
“We should always pay homage to those that died in the line of duty. The climate today, but where we live, we live in community is supportive of law enforcement that makes it a little easier.”
Reporter: “Why do you think it’s different here?”
“I think we have done for years a very good of community policing and getting our message out. I think that helps. As long you are out front and involved in the community that makes all of the difference.”
Drew now guides future officers at Western Iowa Tech as Police Science Coordinator, including Chase Alexander, who helped organize the memorial march with others in his program.
“Trooper Smith’s death is very sad and very thought provoking and I still look forward to putting on the uniform someday.”