King Speaks At Police Memorial Ceremony

by Dwight Turner

“It is time for us to step up and look into the eyes of those of you who wear badges, and say thank you and God bless you.”

So said Alabama Attorney General Troy King in opening his remarks at the Police Memorial Day celebration, held in Ardmore on Wednesday, May 17.

“It is also time for us to pay tribute to those who don’t wear

Members of the Ardmore Police Department Color Guard, displaying the colors at the Police Memorial Day Celebration, held on Wednesday, May 17, are, from left, Mike Cook, Jereme Robison, Carter Kimbrough, Lisa Westmoreland and James Johnston. (photo by Bobby Malone)

badges but support those who do in every way possible,” continued King. “I am talking about the families of those who wear badges. I’m talking about the ones who spend many sleepless nights tossing and turning, fearing that knock at the door.”

King went on to express his gratitude to law enforcement officers everywhere for their hard work, their dedication, their sacrifice and their response to the call of duty.

“The badge is an emblem of the very best among us,” said King. “The badge is an emblem of devotion, service and excellence. Today we can truthfully say that we are in the company of heroes.”

King’s remarks came as the high point of the Ardmore Police Memorial Day Celebration. Festivities began with a luncheon held at the City of Ardmore, TN City Hall Annex. Following the meal, the program officially began at the Ardmore Police Department.

Ardmore Police Chief William “Doc” Oliver welcomed those present and acknowledged the many guests present, including law enforcement officers and officials from numerous counties and cities in both Alabama and Tennessee. After Chief Oliver’s remarks, an invocation was delivered by Pastor Roger Jackson, chaplain of the Ardmore Police Department. After the opening prayer, the APD Color Guard presented the colors and the National Anthem was sung by Katie Roberts.

Town of Admore, AL Mayor Eugene Shannon spoke briefly, expressing his gratitude to the work and sacrifice of Ardmore police officers.

“We are a small town but we can be proud of what we do here in Ardmore,” said Shannon. “Our police department does an outstanding job. As mayor, sometimes I fuss at them a bit, but I want them to know that I believe they do a great job and we are all appreciative of their efforts.”

After Shannon’s remarks, City of Ardmore,TN Mayor Ken Crosson spoke, echoing Shannon’s appreciation of the efforts made by local law enforcement officers.

“I want to thank Doc and his crew for all that they do,” said Crosson. “I don’t know where we would be without them.”

Limestone County District Attorney Kristi Valls introduced King, who was the guest speaker at the program.

“Today is a special day for law enforcement,” said Valls. “It is a time to honor those officers and families that have contributed so much. We are all so thankful that officers were willing to answer the call to duty.

After King’s remarks, Chief Oliver closed the program and ceremonies concluded with the playing of “Taps” by Robert Hodge.