NEW YORK—A somber ceremony of remembrance honoring police officers that have died in the line of duty takes place on Sept. 6 in Battery Park.
The New York Police Department’s (NYPD) Emerald Society has paid tribute to deceased officers with bagpipes and drums since 1997. Days before the 18th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, they once again recited the names engraved on the police memorial.
“The wall means everything to New York City police officers,” said the President of the Police Benevolent Association Patrick Lynch in an interview with NTD News. “It represents the lifeblood of what we do.”
Twenty-three NYPD officers perished on Sept. 11.
Lynch explained that before the attacks, the ceremony was smaller, but now it garners crowds of people.
He said in his speech that the ceremony honors those that gave their lives for the welfare of others. It is also a day to think of those who continue to do the same.
“Today their job is just as difficult out there, and we certainly seek the support of our officers and our communities as we continue to work with them,” said the NYPD’s Chief of Transportation Thomas Chan.
“Our officers will always do their job out there, run where danger is, and it’s important that all of us remember what they’ve done.”
The names of 43 officers who perished in the line of duty were added to the wall last year. One member of the force said that this way they will be remembered forever.
