Police and Peace Officers’ Memorial Day: Minister Ellis

Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services Mike Ellis issued the following statement on Police and Peace Officers’ Memorial Day:

“Today is a day to pause and honour the sacrifice of 104 Alberta police and peace officers who have died in the line of duty since 1876. We pay our respects and express our profound appreciation to these heroes who answered the call to serve their community and carried out their duties with professionalism and courage.

“While keeping our communities safe, these men and women made the ultimate sacrifice – a debt we cannot repay. However, we can – and must – honour their sacrifice by remembering them and paying our respects on occasions like this. In Alberta this year, we mourn the tragic loss of three officers who died in the line of duty: constables Brett Lee Ryan, Travis “TJ” Jordan and Harvinder Singh Dhami. They are heroes taken from us too soon, and Albertans will forever be grateful for their service.

“Police and Peace Officers’ Memorial Day is also a chance to acknowledge the profound loss suffered by the families, friends and colleagues of the fallen officers. We hold you in our thoughts and prayers and remember your loved ones as heroes who had the courage to protect our province.

“This day also allows us to show our gratitude to the police and peace officers serving today who knowingly step into harm’s way daily so that the rest of us can live in peace and safety. Current and fallen officers, our province will forever be deeply grateful to each of you. On behalf of all Albertans, I thank you for protecting our communities.”