GARY, WV (LOOTPRESS) — A memorial parade and wreath placing will occur on May 15th, 2021, at the Gary’s Police Officer’s Memorial.
The second annual memorial service will start around 2:00 pm beside City Hall in Gary, WV.
It will start with a procession through the town with emergency vehicles, then a wreath will be placed under the police memorial.
The Gary Police Officer’s Memorial is the only permanent free-standing memorial to police officers in Southern West Virginia, according to the press release. This memorial honor those who fell on duty.
“We hope for a good turn out from law enforcement agencies and the public.,” said Chief S. P. McKinney, “Every day I see where an officer was killed leaving a family behind. A show of support like this is encouraging to those who serve.”
On Wednesday, May 14th, supporters can send flowers or bring them to be placed at the memorial. Students from Welch Elementary and Kimbell Elementary as well as support groups have also made signs and posters that will remain in place until Monday, May 17th.
Local Minister and former Deputy Sheriff Virgil Green will give a presentation and a prayer. Chief McKinney and Gary Mayor Larry Hairston will also say a few words as well as other officers.
Names that will be added to the memorial this year are McDowell County Deputy Sheriff George Maynard and Bradshaw Police Chief Cole Francis Stanton who were both shot and killed in the line of duty in separate incidents.
Other names of officers can be added when information is received and confirmed. If you know a name of a fallen McDowell County Officer, contact Gary Police Chief McKinney at 304-448-2209.
The City of Welch will also be hosting a parade of light on Friday, May 14th at 8:00 pm. It’s their seventh annual police memorial parade. It’ll feature emergency vehicles that will drive around.
It begins on Stuart Street and goes around the City of Welch. At the end, a meet and greet will commence where people can talk and show support for police officers.
