As a part of every State Fair, there are fun times and sometimes the most serious of occasions.
Every year, officers killed in the line of duty are remembered during the Fair’s “Law Enforcement Day.” At least 100 officers from several police departments came to honor their fallen comrades. A procession assembled in front of the Horticulture Building at the Veteran’s Memorial.
At the top of everyone’s minds, locally, were two officers who lost their lives when they were ambushed in April. Lieutenant Michael Hoosock with the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office and Syracuse Police Officer Michael Jensen. Sheriff Toby Shelly says Hoosock’s choice to respond speaks about his professionalism.
“Lieutenant Hoosock “Hooch,” he didn’t have to respond being the highest ranking person on duty but, they all came together for that tragic moment… because they’re professionals, because they’re heroes.”
Family members of both the Hoosock and Jensen families were present for a wreath laying and the unveiling of their names on bricks along a memorial walkway.
The New York State Police have also lost members from their force in the past year. Police Superintendent Steve James says the officers are heroes who loved their jobs.
“Unfortunately, law enforcement is a dangerous profession today and we find it necessary to add more names to the bricks. Recognizing and honoring their service and their sacrifice.”
James says the legacy of fallen officers is “selfless service and devotion to duty” which continues to guide the State Police today. Nine members of the State Police and 16 who served in other departments were added to the memorial. The memorial is located to the right of the main entrance of the Horticulture Building at the State Fair.
