JACKSONVILLE, N.C. (WITN) – A service remembering public safety workers who’ve lost their lives was held Wednesday morning in Jacksonville

The ceremony for the Peace Officer’s Memorial Day also gave family members and loved ones a way to remember and honor their fallen officer.

“We talk about the ultimate sacrifice,” said Chief Mike Yaniero with the Jacksonville Police Department. “We give healings to the families because they are the ones who are left behind.”

This day remembers those police officers who gave their lives in the line of duty in Jacksonville and Onslow County, as well as officers and public safety personnel who have lost their lives in the past year.

“We are here to honor those who wore the same uniform as me,” said Madison Pool, an officer with Richlands Police Department, “Who no longer get to wear the uniform. I was honored to be part of the ceremony and to stand in their place to show my respect to them one last time.”

There was and honor guard, ceremonial music, gun salute, laying of the ceremonial wreath, and remarks from Mayor Sammy Philips. The ceremony helps the community come together and heal.

“Remembering the sacrifice,” said Chief Yaniero. “That is extremely important to the healing process for all the community.”

Two officers with Onslow County died in 2008 after a truck struck their vehicle. Steve Boehm and Gene Thomas now have a bridge in Jacksonville named after them in their honor of their duty and community.

Mayor Philips proclaimed May 15, 2024 as Peace Officer Memorial Day for the City of Jacksonville community.