LAW ENFORCEMENT MEMORIAL CEREMONY
by Brian Graves
May 17, 2024
OXFORD POLICE DEPARTMENT JOINS IN LAW ENFORCEMENT MEMORIAL CEREMONY
The annual Alabama Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony was held on Friday, May 17, 2024. The memorial, located in Anniston’s Centennial Park, is the state’s official space of remembrance for those who lost their lives while serving their state and communities.
The ceremony began with the Posting of the Colors by an honor guard composed of area law enforcement officers before they participated in the emotional Fallen Officer Ceremony, with the knowledge three more names have been added to the granite wall this year.
The three Alabama officers whose names have been added to the memorial are Huntsville Police Officer Garrett Crumby, Montgomery Police Officer Carlos Taylor, and Alabama Port Authority Police Officer Kimberly Sickafoose.
Oxford Police Chief Bill Partridge, who has been a leader in establishing and maintaining the memorial, read a statement from Gov. Kay Ivey, who was unable to attend due to transportation issues caused by weather near Montgomery.
“Over 15,000 men and women in Alabama put on a law enforcement uniform each day to protect our public no matter what personal risk may await them,” Ivey said in her statement. “All of us take for granted the vital role these public servants perform daily.”
“Alabama will always support law enforcement and honor their sacrifices, not only on Peace Officers Memorial Day but every day,” Ivey’s statement continued.
Oxford Police Chaplain Dr. C.O. Grinstead offered the benediction where he urged everyone “to continue to honor them because these people took a hit because they were protecting people like us.”
“These families are affected for the rest of their lives, and we should pray for them,” Grinstead said.
As National Police Week comes to a close, the city of Oxford expresses its undying gratitude to the men, women, and families of the Oxford Police Department for their service and sacrifice in protecting the residents of Oxford.
The city also appreciates the work and efforts of Chief Partridge for his dedication and devotion to ensuring the men and women of law enforcement who make the ultimate sacrifice are remembered with the honor they deserve.