Fallen officers honored during annual service

May 15—Law enforcement officials and community leaders gathered at the Yuba City Police Department on Wednesday morning to honor officers who have died in the line of duty throughout the region.

The annual Regional Peace Officers Memorial Service falls during National Police Officers Week, which was established by Congress in 1962 to pay special recognition to law enforcement officers who have lost their lives. It is recognized from May 12 to May 18 each year.

"National Police Officers Week serves as a poignant reminder of the bravery and dedication exhibited by Marysville's law enforcement officers," Marysville Police Chief Chris Sachs said in a statement. "It is a time for us to come together as a community and express our profound gratitude for their service and sacrifice."

A perpetual memorial was dedicated to area law enforcement officers who have died over the last several decades, with one dating back to 1868. This year's service was also dedicated to four peace officers across California who passed away in 2023. Roses were presented on a memorial table in remembrance of each officer.

"It's truly an honor and a privilege to pay tribute to those who have served and paid the ultimate sacrifice," Yuba County Sheriff Wendell Anderson said. "It's difficult to find the appropriate words to talk about the heroes that have been lost. This is a day of remembrance, and it is so important to take time to honor our fallen. Their sacrifices were made so you and I can have our freedom, so we can feel safe in our homes, and live our American dream."

A National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial was established in Washington, D.C., in 1991, featuring the names of those who have died on duty. According to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, 136 officers died in 2023, a 39% decrease from the 224 deaths reported in 2022.

On Tuesday, the FBI released a report documenting the number of officers killed or assaulted while on duty from 2014 to 2023. According to the study, of the total deaths reported nationwide in 2023, approximately 60 officers were feloniously killed.

This year, the names of 282 officers were added to the Officers Memorial, where there are currently 24,067 names engraved, Anderson said.

"To lay down your life for a loved one is a tremendous sacrifice, but to do it for a stranger or someone you never met is truly, truly astonishing, yet so common in our profession," he said.

Sutter County Sheriff Brandon Barnes read aloud the names of four California officers who died last year: — Riverside County Sheriff's Deputy Darnell Calhoun — Selma Police Department Officer Gonzalo Carrasco Jr. — Los Angeles County Sheriff's Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer — Oakland Police Department Officer Tuan Le

After a rifle salute from the Local Law Enforcement Honor Guard, members of the Beale Air Force Base Honor Guard performed a final tie-off with the U.S. flag while taps was played. The ceremony ended with the song "Amazing Grace."