The men and women of the Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) paid their respects to the 26 Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) officers who have been killed in the line of duty. The Annual AHPA Police Officer Memorial Ceremony was held this morning at 9 am.
This year marks the tenth anniversary since the AHPA-commissioned monument to honor DPS fallen Officers was dedicated.
During this years’ ceremony, special recognition will be given to the original AHPA committee members who worked so hard to make the monument possible. AHPA is also commemorating this tenth anniversary with a limited edition challenge coin that will be presented to each surviving family & a special 10th anniversary display presented to the DPS.
Governor Janet Napolitano & DPS Director Roger Vanderpool, spoke at today's ceremony. This annual memorial not only honors the officers, but also the sacrifices of their families. This ceremony is a solemn reminder of the danger DPS officers face every day as they protect & serve the State of Arizona.