pulicords
04-04-2008, 08:01 PM
I attended the memorial dedication today for California Highway Patrol Officers Pence, Gore, Frago and Alleyn in Newhall (Santa Clarita). Photos are posted in the Officer Down News & Memorial section if you're interested in seeing them.
I was disappointed about the somewhat light VIP turnout, but impressed by the 70+ family members who attended. I guess the Governor, Attorney General, Sheriff and local Chiefs were too busy today. At least D.A. Cooley was there, but he lives in Santa Clarita and appreciates our local LEOs. Included among those in attendance were several of the officers' widows, children and grandchildren (pictured). Also in attendance was a citizen who ran to the downed officers' aid, picked up one of their service weapons and fired at the suspects. This incident occurred on 04/06/1970 and although it was over six years later when I learned of the details (my first day in the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Academy), it had a lasting impact on me. I'm sure it affected thousands of officers over the years and saved many lives through it's lessons learned.
I was disappointed about the somewhat light VIP turnout, but impressed by the 70+ family members who attended. I guess the Governor, Attorney General, Sheriff and local Chiefs were too busy today. At least D.A. Cooley was there, but he lives in Santa Clarita and appreciates our local LEOs. Included among those in attendance were several of the officers' widows, children and grandchildren (pictured). Also in attendance was a citizen who ran to the downed officers' aid, picked up one of their service weapons and fired at the suspects. This incident occurred on 04/06/1970 and although it was over six years later when I learned of the details (my first day in the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Academy), it had a lasting impact on me. I'm sure it affected thousands of officers over the years and saved many lives through it's lessons learned.