OPD Chief Partridge Leads Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony
May 16, 2025
Oxford Police Chief and Director of Public Safety Bill Partridge was the featured speaker for the 9th annual Alabama Law Enforcement Memorial ceremony held at Centennial Memorial Park in Anniston on Friday, May 16, 2025.
The ceremony is the traditional end to National Police Week, which honors the brave officers who sacrifice daily to protect the communities they serve.
Partridge has been at the forefront of the establishment and maintenance of the state memorial, which bears the names of all the police officers in Alabama who were killed in the line of duty.
“Today we gather under this gray Alabama sky, united in gratitude, honoring the brave law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty,” said Partridge to an audience which included family members of some of those whose names are inscribed on the memorial wall.
“Each name we honor today represents not just a fallen hero, but also a story of dedication, courage and commitment to safeguarding our communities across the state of Alabama,” he said. “These officers faced danger with unwavering resolve, serving as protectors of justice at the expense of their own lives.”
Partridge also paid tribute to the late Ken Rollins and his role in creating the memorial, which was formally dedicated in 2016. He said Rollins’ “tireless dedication has ensured the memories of these fallen officers are preserved with the honor they so richly deserve.”
“Through his hard work, he has fostered a space for reflections and a sanctuary for gratitude where families and communities can come together to celebrate the lives of our courageous men and women in blue,” he said.
“Let us pledge to support one another to uphold the values of integrity and service, and to always stand in solidarity with the families of our fallen officers,” Partridge said.
Calhoun County Circuit Clerk Kim McCarson emceed the morning with Probate Judge Alice Martin singing the National Anthem.
Honor Guards comprised of local law enforcement officers presented the colors and performed the traditional Fallen Officer ceremony, forming a patchwork of uniform and badge perched on a weapon.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Memorial Pipes and Drums performed “Amazing Grace,” and OPD chaplain Dr. C.O. Grinstead gave the benediction.
“It’s not just names we are remembering, it’s people,” Grinstead said.