GPF remembers 64 fallen heroes

Sixty-four fallen heroes of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) were on Sunday morning honoured and remembered for their contributions as the Force observed its annual Wreath Laying Ceremony in the compound of the Police Officers’ Mess Hall, Eve Leary.
The event saw the Vice President and Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan, Commissioner of Police, Leslie James along with his Deputy Commanders and other high-ranking officials of the Force with widows, children, relatives and friends of the fallen heroes laying wreaths at the feet of the Monument to Fallen Heroes.
As a mark of respect, a 21-gun salute was executed and the Police Military Band sounded the Last Post and the Reveille following which a moment of silence was observed.
In his remarks, Commissioner James pointed to the dangers faced by ranks of the Police Force on a daily basis and thanked the ranks who charge their obligation.
“Fleeing is not an option for police officers in the line of duty since they are mandated to serve and protect the citizens of the country. Ranks are duty-bound to confront violators of the laws and this confrontation in which triggers the fight or flight response…During some of these attacks, some ranks are killed in the line of duty making them our heroes…I thank all ranks for making that sacrifice daily and pray that the great almighty continues to allow us to move our great country forward” James briefly stated.
Chairman of the Guyana Police Force Fallen Heroes Foundation, Rev Raphael Massiah in his remarks thanked the serving members of the Force for their monthly contribution to the Fallen Heroes Fund.
This Fund contributes to the children of the deceased for their education and welfare. He said he will honour this charge and his obligations to the families of the fallen heroes.
During the ceremony, words of comfort were offered to the relatives and friends of the ranks killed in the line of duty by the Police Force Chaplain, Pastor Patrick Doolichand.
Also attending the ceremony were Heads of the Disciplined Services, Chairman of the Police Service Commission, Paul Slowe DSM, Former Police Commissioner, Floyd McDonald and other retired senior officers of the Guyana Police Force.