TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV) – A local state trooper who died in the line of duty is now being honored in our nation’s capital.
Florida Highway Patrol trooper Craig Gaines died in September after experiencing medical complications due to an injury sustained while on duty traveling with Florida A&M University’s football team.
He is among 109 officers who died last year now being added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in D.C.
The group held its annual engraving ceremony on Tuesday.
Chief Scott Brecht with the United States Park Police said even one line-of-duty death is too many.
“The number we’re striving for is zero. I know some people think that’s not attainable, but we’re going to keep pushing for men and women in law enforcement to be able to go home safely to their families after each and every shift,” Brecht said.
Tuesday’s ceremony is part of the lead-up to National Police Week.
All of the names added to the memorial this year will be read aloud during a candlelight vigil on May 13.
Hahira police officer Caleb Abney’s name will be engraved during next year’s ceremony.
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