Sangamon Sun

Yesterday at the Capitol, the 39th Annual Illinois Police Officer’s Memorial took place to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in order to protect our communities. The ceremony paid tribute to six fallen police officers who displayed remarkable bravery in the line of duty.

The event included solemn rituals such as the reading of The Survivors Prayer, a gun salute, and musical renditions of Amazing Grace and Taps. The families of the fallen officers were in attendance and were presented with plaques and casings in remembrance of their loved ones.

"Our law enforcement officers are the backbone to public safety and everyday they risk their own lives to protect the citizens of Illinois," expressed an unidentified individual in attendance. The sentiment echoed the profound gratitude towards those who dedicate their lives to maintaining law and order.

Another participant shared, "The 39th Annual Illinois Police Officer’s Memorial was of great importance for our state, and I was honored to be a part of such an important memorial." The event served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers in the line of duty.

The names of the honored fallen officers were Officer Andres Mauricio Vasquez Lasso and Officer Aréanah Makayla Preston from the Chicago Police Department, Officer John Francis Kane from the Cicero Police Department, Sheriff Ray Boston from the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Sheriff Andrew H. Sloan from the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office, and Detective Todd C. Gillerlain from the Chicago Police Department.

The memorial not only provided an opportunity to show support for law enforcement but also to acknowledge and respect the families who have been deeply affected by the loss of these officers. It served as a poignant reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face daily in the line of duty.

For more information and photos from the memorial, visit: [Illinois Police Officer’s Memorial](https://repcoffey.com/2024/01/09/law-enforcement-appreciation-day-thank-you-police-officers).