COMMUNITY members gathered at the Mount Gambier Police Station today for the annual Limestone Coast National Police Remembrance Day memorial service.
Civic leaders and representatives from businesses and fellow emergency services joined local police officers to honour those who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
Held on the feast day of Saint Michael the Archangel, the patron saint of police, National Police Remembrance is an opportunity to acknowledge the dangers of the profession, reflect upon the sacrifices made by officers and focus on the challenges that lie ahead.
Master of Ceremonies Sergeant Andy Stott welcomed guests before police chaplain Pastor Greg Vangsness made his address.
“Our blue community gives us so much, but it can also cost us dearly,” Pastor Vangsness said.
“May we work with respect for justice and with sufficient regard for one another, that no threat will make us depart from it.
“May we be kept safe in body and soul as we work together for the advance of safety and welfare in our land.”
Limestone Coast Police officer in charge Superintendent Grant Moyle spoke about the importance of community within the police profession.
“The unique nature of our profession fosters comradery,” he said.
“Our police community gives us strength, a sense of belonging and identity.
“Today is a reminder of the inherent dangers police officers face and an opportunity to honour the 61 South Australian police officers who paid the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.”
Wreaths and floral tributes were laid at the wall of remembrance as a mark of respect for fallen comrades.
Sergeant Stott led the crowd in the Remembrance Response Prayer.
“In the quietness of this moment, we pause unite with our fellow police officers around the nation in remembering those officers who sacrificed their life in the pursuit of their duties,” he said.
“We are inspired by their dedication, their commitment to service and their deeds of bravery.”
