Marion and Alachua counties pay tribute to fallen law enforcement officers this week

The Annual Marion County Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony will be held Thursday in honor of all the law enforcement officers that have lost their lives serving their communities. The event will take place at the McPherson Complex on SE 25th Avenue. Ocala Police Department spokesman Chas Maier says officers should have a day to be honored because they risk their own lives every day for their communities.

“The one time of year we can pay homage to officers, law enforcement officers all across the nation, of course locally, that have lost their lives trying to protect the community,” he said.

All Marion County Law Enforcement Agencies will be represented and the ceremony will include a Flag Presentation by Multi-Agency Honor Guard, a Wreath Presentation, Bugle Taps, and a 21 Gun Salute among other things. The activities will also feature a Guest Speaker, Sergeant Jennifer Fulford from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office.

Meanwhile, Alachua County is having a similar event tonight at 6 p.m. at the Kanapaha Park off Tower Road in Gainesville.