TRACY, Calif. –
Employees of Defense Logistics Agency San Joaquin, law enforcement officers of the local community, congressional staff and local city council members paid tribute to the fallen law enforcement officers during a morning National Peace Officers’ Memorial Observance May 17 in the fire bay of the Public Safety Center. DLA Installation Management at San Joaquin Family Advocacy Program manager Sharon Stewart served as the keynote speaker.
Before the keynote speech, DLA Installation Management at San Joaquin site director Jonathan Mathews and DLA Distribution San Joaquin commander Marine Col. Kevin Chunn provided remarks paying tribute to the fallen officers.
Mathews took the opportunity to pay his respect and express eternal gratitude to those brave officers that lost their lives in performance of their duties.
“Since the last time we were brought together for this somber occasion, I am saddened beyond words that we must continue to gather each year at this time to acknowledge these selfless acts of heroism in order to keep us safe and sound,” said Mathews. “I also feel such deep sorrow for those that are left behind when these tragedies occur; the families, friends, and other loved ones who now must endure the tremendous effect of loss of a life taken away much too soon.”
Mathews went on to talk about in today’s turbulent world, these brave officers are battling with anti-police rhetoric daily.
“I truly wish we all could go back in time when law enforcement was respected by all. Yet, with all the anti-police chatter, these brave men and women still give their all to protect every one of us,” said Mathews. “Respect for our law enforcement officers must be restored in our nation. It is time for us to unite and say, “we will not allow this”. No more will we tolerate disrespect for those who serve. No more will allow hate to tear us apart.”
He concluded his remarks encouraging the audience to make it a point to tell law enforcement and first responders how much they truly are appreciated, and how thankful we are that they put their lives on the line daily for our collective safety.
Chunn not only gave his heart-felt thanks to the law enforcement community and first responders, but he also took the opportunity to highlight the bond between military and law enforcement officers.
“While we may serve in different uniforms, our objectives are aligned,” said Chunn. “We share a common purpose: to protect and serve, to uphold the values that make our nation strong, and to maintain the rule of law.”
Chunn concluded his remarks to remind the audience to never forget the sacrifices of our fallen heroes.
During the keynote address, Stewart reminded the audience that the legacies of these unsung heroes will always have a place in our community’s history.
“The brave men and women whose background stories are as diverse as our nation itself gave their lives to protect our safety and defend our communities. They are forever bound together by an unbreakable bond of valor,” said Stewart. She went on to remind the audience, predominantly members of San Joaquin County law enforcement, that they are not alone, and many resources are available in their time of need. You are not alone, there are trained professionals ready and able to help you through your troubled times. Lean on them, go to them and trust in them like we trust in you,” said Stewart. “Reach out to your chaplain, religious leaders, employee assistance counselors, mental health counselors or myself.”
She concluded by thanking all law enforcement personnel for a job well done.
To pay tribute to the 17 fallen officers and one K9 from California, their names were read and were given a moment of silence followed by Mathews and DLA Installation Management at San Joaquin police chief Christy Hardt laying a wreath in their honor.