POLICE Remembrance Day is a time to reflect, remember and honour the crucial role Victoria Police officers play in our communities.
Day and night, officers put on the uniform and head out – through rain, hail or shine. Sometimes it’s to support people in their darkest moments; other times it’s to raise awareness or bring joy to children. And on some days, tragically, officers hug their kids, kiss their loved ones, and never walk back through their front door.
“It’s important to maintain the public awareness of sacrifices Victoria Police members make,” Sergeant Barry McCoy said to the Sentinel-Times in the lead-up to September 29.
“I think it’s really important that the community is well reminded of those sacrifices.
“Many policemen and women have died on duty for various reasons. Some have been killed [in accidents] while performing their duties, and some have been murdered while performing their duties.”
Over 45 years as a police officer, Sgt McCoy has experienced it.
“There are police officers who, unfortunately, have taken their own life because of the stresses and the strains that policing can put on them and the things that they have to deal with. I’ve seen a lot of policemen get killed on duty. I’ve known policemen who have been murdered, and I’ve worked with many who have died from illnesses, not just work-related. It’s important we’re including all police members.
“If there wasn’t a Remembrance Day, if there wasn’t a Blue Ribbon Day, and it wasn’t made public then, imagine that. It’s reminding us all what our job is about. It’s also awareness and respect for the members who paid the ultimate sacrifice while performing policing duties.
“Keeping their memory alive means they’re not forgotten.”
For First Constable Joshua Di Salvatore, the day carries a slightly different but equally powerful meaning.
“It’s about remembering the past police officers,” First Constable Di Salvatore added.
“I’m the first police officer in my family, and looking forward to being a part of the legacy. It’s a way we can recognise those who have served before us, and continue their legacy.”
