“I take immense pride in leading a department filled with individuals who exemplify courage, integrity, and unwavering dedication that fallen officers lived and served by.” — El Paso Police Chief Peter Pacillas
Those words of honor and purpose were an important part of the message delivered during a memorial service as part of National Police Week on May 15 at the El Paso Police Officer Memorial Monument at Chuck Heinrich Park.
Officers perform a 21-gun salute during the El Paso Police Memorial in honor of National Police Week at Chuck Heinrich Park, May 15, 2026. It symbolizes ultimate respect, gratitude and brotherhood.
Pacillas, wearing his EPPD uniform with black tape across his badge, offered his condolences and prayers to the family members of officers killed in the line of duty.
Chairs draped in white covers held photos showing the fallen officers were real people — not faceless figures on the front lines of public service in the El Paso community.
A photo of fallen El Paso Police officer Gerardo Morales sits on a chair during the El Paso Police Memorial in honor of National Police Week at Chuck Heinrich Park, May 15, 2026. Provide your feedback on BizChat
Family members sat respectfully during the solemn gathering.
“Your loved ones will be remembered and honored within our hearts and throughout our department,” the chief said. “We pledge to carry their legacy forward, ensuring their sacrifices remain in our collective memory.”
Speaking to the officers who attended the memorial, Pacillas called on them to “reaffirm the principles that guide our work: Integrity, respect and unwavering dedication to our community.”
El Paso Police officers listen to remarks by Chief Peter Pacillas during the El Paso Police Memorial in honor of National Police Week at Chuck Heinrich Park, May 15, 2026.
Pacillas closed his remarks with an intentional pause.
“Let us take a moment of silence to honor those we have lost and to celebrate their invaluable contributions,” he said. “May their spirits guide us as we fulfill our essential mission of serving our community.”
Remembering the fallen: El Paso police memorial pays tribute
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Officers perform a three‑volley salute during the El Paso Police Memorial in honor of National Police Week at Chuck Heinrich Park, May 15, 2026.
(Omar Ornelas/El Paso Times)
This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: El Paso pauses to honor fallen officers during National Police Week