One hundred and nineteen names were read at the annual Kansas City Missouri Police Department Memorial Service. Each one was an officer who was killed in the line of duty in the department’s history.
For some family members of the fallen officers, this year’s ceremony was more difficult.
"With the recent death of Brad Lancaster, it's resurfaced a lot of emotions," explained Tracy Meyers-Keeling, daughter of slain officer Tom Meyers.
Meyers-Keeling said though the Kansas City, Missouri force has not lost anyone since 2001, the shooting death of Lancaster reminded her of her father's death.
Meyers served the Kansas City community for about 16 years until he was hit and killed by a drunk driver.
"It was around 10 in the morning. He was killed almost immediately," said Meyers-Keeling. "The man who killed him is still in prison, but he could get out in the next five years.”
For Meyers-Keeling, those who have experienced this loss are part of a group.
"You get a membership into a club you don't want to be a part of," said Meyers-Keeling. "The ones who came before can kind of help you out. You might not know – January 14 in two years might slap you in the face," she said, referencing the date she lost her father.
Colorguard has started @kcpolice memorial service. So many loved ones here remembering their legacy. @41ActionNews pic.twitter.com/EfWGxyaAaI
— Belinda Post (@Belinda_Post) May 19, 2016
“My dad brought me to this very memorial. I had no clue what I was doing. My dad thought every kid should know what's going on… Now, I'm glad my dad did. I do the same for my son,” said Meyers-Keeling.
Retired officers who spoke to 41 Action News said they come each year not only for the officers they knew, but also to honor everyone who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Meet retirees of @kcpolice 85 & 92. They're here for all the names read @ KCMO Police Memorial Service @41ActionNews pic.twitter.com/XkvJlrqRmm
— Belinda Post (@Belinda_Post) May 19, 2016
------
Follow 41 Action News on Twitter:
Like 41 Action News on Facebook:
