Coming Together To Honor Mishawaka’s Fallen Police Officers.

On Thursday, May 15th at 6:30 pm, the City of Mishawaka and the Mishawaka Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) hosted the annual Fallen Officer Memorial Ceremony in the Mishawaka City Hall Council Chambers. This was the first memorial ceremony I have attended, and it was a heart moving experience. I do not just want to share the facts, but I want to share just how touching the ceremony was. Not just for me, but for all in attendance.

The memorial ceremony was an emotional display of love and appreciation for Mishawaka’s fallen officers. The ceremony prompted the audience to stop and reflect on everything unfolding in front of them. Families and friends of each fallen officer sitting in the audience; Mishawaka’s community uniting to honor the fallen. The images of the four men and one K-9, Mishawaka’s Fallen Police Officers, at the front of the room.

The ceremony was held on Peace Officers Memorial Day, a day in which the community reflects on what sacrifices it takes to be a police officer. The men and women who work the front lines risk their lives for the safety and protection of the community every day. Peace Officers Memorial Day is a reminder that police officers, while brave and strong, are human too.

“We’re not superhuman. We’re not the Navy Seal sniper, and psychology expert that the world sometimes expects of us. We are human.” says Richard Freeman, the Mishawaka FOP President.

The memorial ceremony served as a powerful tribute to each police officers’ courage, dedication to safety, and humanity. It is a reminder to honor and support those who serve and protect our community, not just on this day, but every day.

As the ceremony concluded, the audience left with Mishawaka’s fallen officers’ legacy. They are forever honored; their influence and courage inspire many. They are an embodiment of dedication, loyalty, and bravery to their community.

We honor Patrolman Clarence Casper, May 5th, 1930 – June 10th, 1930. We honor Corporal Thomas Roberts, 1989-2003. We honor Patrolman Bryan Verkler, 2001-2003. We honor Corporal James Szuba, 2002-2010, and his K-9, Ricky.