BROWNSVILLE, Texas (May 8, 2017) – The Brownsville Police Department Honor Guard traveled to the State Capitol in Austin, Texas to participate in the 2017 Texas Peace Officers Memorial Service and Candlelight Vigil, held on April 30 to May 1, 2017.

On Sunday, April 30, 2017, the names of 32 law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice during 2015 and 2016 were read aloud at the Candlelight Vigil. Following various presentations, the candle lighting and wreath laying ceremony, a tribute to the fallen was recited. The Candlelight Vigil concluded with the Pipe and Drum Core performing “Amazing Grace.”

On Monday, May 1, 2017, the Peace Officers Memorial Service was held on the south steps of the State Capitol, the event beginning with a procession on Congress Avenue Bridge. Members of the Brownsville Police Department Honor Guard were among 65 Color Guard Teams, Motorcycle Officers, law enforcement motorcycle groups, and a combined Pipe and Drum Corps.

Following the procession, Governor Greg Abbott honored Texas peace officers who have been killed in the line of duty at a memorial ceremony at the Texas Capitol. The Governor reminded all Texans of the debt of gratitude we owe to our peace officers for their service and dedication, and offered his deepest condolences to the families of every lost officer.

"The brave men and women in uniform who protect and serve this great state, and the families who stand by their side, deserve our deepest respect," said Governor Abbott. "In gratitude of these selfless servants, we celebrate their dedication and commitment to protecting the people of Texas, and it is in great sorrow that we mourn every officer lost. I ask all Texans to join me in prayer for the families of the fallen, that they may find new strength each and every day."

“It was truly an honor to represent the City of Brownsville and the Rio Grande Valley at the Texas Peace Officers Memorial Service and Candlelight Vigil,” said Brownsville Police Chief Orlando Rodriguez. “As officers, we recognize the dangers we face daily, however, the Brownsville Police Department is committed to the safety and well-being of our residents. Each day, we honor those made the ultimate sacrifice.”

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The Brownsville Police Department is committed to providing proactive, professional and effective public safety and community service, employing integrity and fairness through community partnerships for the enhancement of the quality of life in the City of Brownsville.