As part of the recognition of National Police Week, the Battle Creek Police Department will hold its annual Police Memorial Service and Awards Ceremony on Tuesday, May 16.
In 1962, the late President John F. Kennedy designated May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day. Activities are held around the world on that day and during National Police Week that honor officers who have died in the course of duty.
The local event is an opportunity for the BCPD to recognize its officers, and members of the community, who have performed above and beyond during the previous year.
In 2016 there were 144 deaths in the line of duty, with seven of those happening in Michigan.
This year the department will distribute 109 Unit Citations, 23 Professional Excellence Citations, one Meritorious Service Citation, 10 Letters of Commendation to civilians and outside agencies, and five Service Awards.
“This week’s ceremony is to recognize the extreme commitment of our officers who serve Battle Creek and Bedford Township and to memorialize the officers lost during the past year,” said Chief Jim Blocker.
Corporal Damon Young has been chosen as this year’s Officer of the Year and will be formally recognized during the ceremony.
The honor designates Young as the department’s representative at various civic group and organization events throughout the year. Young was chosen based on the recommendation of an awards committee comprised of his peers, and with final approval from the chief’s office.