Police pay their respects to fallen officers at National Police Remembrance Day in Wollongong. Photo: NSW Police.
Police officers and their families gathered at services across the Illawarra and South Coast on Friday (27 September), to mark National Police Remembrance Day.
A service was held at Wollongong Uniting Church on the Mall and St Stephen’s Anglican Church, Bomaderry to honour the 276 officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism the Honourable Yasmin Catley MP said: “Today we pause to remember the officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
“We also pay our respects to those left behind – the families, friends, and colleagues – whose losses are incomprehensible.
“On behalf of the people of NSW, we thank you for the incredible work you do – all too often in very challenging circumstances and today we honour the relentless dedication, compassion, and commitment of our officers, both past and present,” Minister Catley said.
NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb APM said Police Remembrance Day was important for not only police in NSW, but also for police across the country and the Pacific region to pay their respects.
“Police Remembrance Day is a day of the year where we, along with the community, remember those officers who have lost their lives serving the community,” Commissioner Webb said.
“Those officers’ dedication and courage serve as a powerful reminder of the risks our officers face every day to keep our communities safe.
“This year is particularly poignant in that we will be adding the name of Sergeant Peter Stone to The Wall of Remembrance. Peter tragically lost his life while rescuing his own son near Narooma last year.
“We stand with the families and loved ones of our fallen officers, offering our deepest gratitude and unwavering support.”
Sergeant Peter Thomas Stone from Blue Mountains Police Area Command died on 1 January 2023 while saving his son from a rip at Bologa Beach.
An investigation into Sergeant Stone’s passing confirmed he was on duty at the time of his death.
Original Article published by Zoe Cartwright on Region Illawarra.
