Peace Officers Memorial Day
May 15

Each May, the The Greater Cleveland Peace Officers Memorial Society sponsors the Greater Cleveland Peace Officers Memorial Celebration in conjunction with National Police Week and Peace Officers Memorial Day (May 15th). Events include a parade through downtown Cleveland followed by a service at the memorial.

Dedicated on May 14, 1993, The Greater Cleveland Peace Officers Memorial is located at the corner of West 3rd St. and Lakeside Ave in downtown Cleveland in the historic Huntington Park.

Patrick Cater wrote us, "Unfortunately, 2 names were added to the Peace Officers Memorial at 3rd and Lakeside on Friday. Patrolman Jason D. West of the Cleveland Heights Police Department and Patrolman George Brentar of the Euclid Police Department died in the line of duty in the service of their community, and their names were added to the memorial.

Thursday, May 15th, is Peace Officers Memorial Day. Under a bill signed by JFK, American Flags are to be flown at half staff on this day. I ask that you fly your flag in remembrance of not only these 2 men, but for all who have died in the line of duty; If you're able, fly it at half staff.

I was active in the Greater Cleveland Peace Officers Memorial Society while I was an Auxie, and am a firm believer in the work they do. Each year, they put on several activities during "Police Week". Friday is the parade through downtown, ending at the Police Monument, where a memorial service for those killed in the previous year are honored.

Police from not only the local area, but those from across the country, Canada, and foreign countries join in the tribute to their fallen comrades. I attended 3 such memorials, and have to say, it was a humbling experience.

I had the honor of knowing and working with George. Words can't describe what I thought of him, not only as a man, but as a police officer."

More about the Greater Cleveland Peace Officers Memorial