Montgomery Police Department holds memorial ceremony honoring 29 fallen officers

The Montgomery Police Department held a memorial ceremony in Montgomery to honor 29 officers who died in the line of duty. Present at the event were department leadership, city officials and family members of the fallen.

Chief James N. Grayboys opened with remarks thanking families and partner agencies and noting the monument that bears the 29 names. "These names are more than etched in stone. They are lasting representations of the brave officers who gave their last full measure on behalf of a city that they loved," Grayboys said.

Mayor Steven L. Reed also addressed the gathering, calling National Police Week a time of remembrance and urging the community to "pause to reflect on the valor of peace officers across this nation." Reed said the Montgomery Police Department has lost 29 officers in its more than 200-year history and described their service as a legacy.

Jeremy Reid, Montgomery's chief of staff, spoke of his military experience with casualty affairs and mortuary services and underscored the burden and honor of remembering those who have fallen. "Tonight, we refuse to sleep on their sacrifice and refuse to forget the heroes we've lost," Reid said.

The ceremony included musical performances and a roll call naming each fallen officer with dates associated with their deaths. Family members of the fallen were invited to stand when their loved one's name was read. The event concluded with an invitation for refreshments in the foyer for staff, distinguished guests and family members.

No formal policy actions, votes, or directives were presented during the ceremony; speakers offered remembrance, gratitude and calls to support current officers and families of the fallen.