Memorial service for 11 fallen deputies in Lee County held Tuesday

Reporter: Marcello Cuadra Writer: Paul Dolan
Published:
Lee County Sheriff Deputies gather to pay respects to 11 fallen deputies. (CREDIT: WINK News)

The Lee County Sheriff’s Office held a special ceremony Tuesday at the McGregor Baptist Church in the fallen deputies’ honor.

The ceremony had a video of the three-gun salute. Other law enforcement officers and some family members of the fallen got a chance to place a rose on a wreath.

One by one fallen deputies were honored and remembered during the memorial services.

Family members of the fallen, along with their brothers and sisters in arms and neighbors gathering at McGregor Baptist Church to pay their respects to 11 fallen LCS deputies.

Sheriff Carmine Marceno said “Words are words, but when you walk in and you see people sitting here, and they want to share that grief, with the loved ones that lost their loved ones. It’s a very special day.”

The memorial service began with Sheriff Marceno walking into the church alongside the family members of the fallen.

“I’ll tell you as a sheriff. No, my biggest fear is just that I don’t want to see one rose. But I will tell you it hit you in the heart a couple times throughout the ceremony. It just brings tears to your eyes when you look over and you see loved ones grieving the loss even after years. What they feel it hits you right in the heart. And it’s a very special day for all of us,” Sheriff Marceno said.

Now, Sheriff Marceno explains, today also serves as a reminder.

“When we get that call. We’re going no matter what. And it’s a reminder of how dangerous this career is. But most importantly, it’s bittersweet because while we’re here grieving with the families of lost ones, it hurts my heart to stand here and watch 11 roses, go on a reef. But the other side of that is it’s important. And it’s heartwarming that they’re in a better place. And we never forget.”

The memorial service lasted for about an hour. It also coincides with National Police Week. Sherif Marceno says this week provides an important opportunity for people around the country to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Part of the list of fallen deputies in Lee County. (CREDIT: WINK News)
Part of the list of fallen deputies in Lee County. (CREDIT: WINK News)

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