APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Due to COVID-19, the Appleton Police Department is honoring Police Week differently this year.
It’s where the country honors police officers who have died in the line of duty.
Instead of having a public event, the Appleton Police Department Honor Guard did a ceremonial flag raising at the station Monday, without spectators.
A bagpiper played Amazing Grace during the flag raising.
Pictures of each fallen officer were set up along with empty boots, for all 146 officers who died last year.
New Appleton Mayor Jake Woodford tells FOX 11 events like these are important to remember those who work to keep their communities safe.
“It’s incredibly important to pause and honor those who have given their lives in service to their community, and their country. So today’s ceremony is our way in Appleton of doing that. Of taking stock, and expressing our gratitude for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.”
The Boot Memorial Project will be on display throughout the week, pending weather conditions.
Two Wisconsin police officers were honored in the ceremony Monday: Milwaukee Police Officer Matthew Rittner, who died last February and Racine Police Officer John Hetland, who died in June.
National Police Week runs from May 10th through May 16th.
