The Mecklenburg County Peace Officers Memorial pays tribute to CMPD officers killed in the line of duty.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police honored those who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Peace Officers Memorial on Friday.
The Mecklenburg County Peace Officers Memorial Service recognized law enforcement officials who were killed in the line of duty, including the four officers who lost their lives during last April’s ambush in east Charlotte. The solemn event included a wreath-laying ceremony and procession through Uptown to First Baptist Church.
Once inside, CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings reflected on where Charlotte’s law enforcement community is today, one year after one of the darkest days in Charlotte’s history.
“The work we do is inherently dangerous,” Jennings said. “There is no routine call, no guarantee of safety. Every time an officer puts on the uniform and answers the call, they willingly step into situations where there’s peril.”
Jennings’ remarks focused on remembering officers who made that ultimate sacrifice, particularly those killed last April. He offered condolences to the families of fallen officers and spoke about CMPD’s profound loss last year.
“At the heart of this profession lies an extraordinary act of selflessness,” Jennings said. “To choose to put others before oneself, to willingly place oneself in harm’s way for the safety of strangers, that is a true testament to the character and the courage of our law enforcement officers.
“This is not merely a job, it’s a calling. It’s a profound commitment driven by a deep sense of duty and a genuine desire to make a difference in the lives of others.”
Friday’s service came days after North Carolina’s 40th annual Peace Officers’ Memorial Day event. Eight officers were recognized during the solemn ceremony with their families present to receive heartfelt recognition from law enforcement leaders and state dignitaries.
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