The 38th annual Police Memorial Service was held Thursday evening at Owensboro Christian Church, bringing together law enforcement officers, families, and members of the community to honor those who have died in the line of duty.
The ceremony featured a keynote address from Master Trooper Corey King, who serves as the public affairs officer for Kentucky State Police Post 16 in Henderson.
“Each name etched in stone, each story told, represents a hero who swore an oath to serve and protect,” King said during his speech. “They were mothers, fathers, daughters, sons, friends, and colleagues… We must reaffirm our commitment to supporting those who continue to serve.”
The service concluded with a 21-gun salute performed by members of the KSP, Daviess County Sheriff’s Office, and Owensboro Police Department.
Cameron Edwards, chaplain for Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 16, said the event has continued for nearly four decades due to the strong support from the community.
“Our community has always backed local law enforcement,” Edwards said. “They understand that the sacrifices made by officers across the nation are what allow them to live in safe neighborhoods and homes.”
Edwards said the annual memorial rotates among different churches each year, a reflection of the community-wide effort to recognize fallen officers.
“Almost every church in the area has hosted it at one point,” he said. “This year, we’re especially honored to have Trooper King speak, because unlike many past speakers, he’s still actively in the field. He’s one of us.”
According to Edwards, 147 law enforcement officers died in the line of duty nationwide in 2024 — a noticeable decrease from previous years but still a stark reminder of the profession’s risks.
“One officer is one too many,” he said.
While no officers from Daviess County or the City of Owensboro were lost last year, Edwards said Kentucky still saw several losses statewide.
“In 2023, 10 officers were honored at a state memorial service in June,” he noted.
Edwards emphasized that the event is open to the public and encouraged greater participation in the future.
“This is just a small way for us to give back to the families, the departments, and the communities who’ve lost someone,” he said. “Law enforcement is a brotherhood. When one officer falls, we all feel it.”
He also expressed appreciation for the community’s ongoing support of the FOP’s other efforts, including programs like Shop with a Cop and back-to-school drives.
“We’d love for more folks to join us at this event each year,” Edwards said. “It means a lot to our officers and the families they serve.”
As King closed his address, he echoed a sentiment shared by the late Trooper Eric Chrisman: “God first, family second. We are all family.”
