Recognising the bravery and service of our Victorian Police Force
Each year on September 29, we are honoured to partner with Victoria Police on National Police Remembrance Day. On this special day of remembrance, we honour and reflect on the memories of police officers who have so tragically lost their lives in the line of duty.
We recognise the bravery and service of our Victorian Police Force and celebrate this very special group of people who selflessly gave their lives to keep our community safe, and who in carrying out their duty to protect us made the ultimate sacrifice. We remember them, we celebrate their valour, and humbly commemorate their legacy.
This year, we share with you a special message from SMCT CEO Jane Grover, Local Area Commander - Greater Dandenong Inspector Mark Langhorn and Victoria Police Officer Constable Mark Andrews. Prior to joining the Victorian Police Force in 2019, Mark Andrews was an employee at SMCT for almost 18 years.
We are honoured to be home to the Police Memorial at Springvale Botanical Cemetery. This memorial provides police officers, their families and our community with a place to reflect, honour and pay their respect.
The memorial was constructed in 1999 in conjunction with Victoria Police following the brutal and callous slaying of Sergeant Gary Silk and Senior Constable Rod Miller in August 1998. The memorial was then dedicated by Police Chaplain Reverend, Jim Pilmer, in the presence of the Chief Commissioner in November 1999.
It is not always easy to understand the dedication that our police officers have for their work and the sacrifices they make. National Police Remembrance Day is a timely reminder to recognise our police officers for their service and show them that their work is valued.
Although we cannot join together for an on-site service this year we honour our Victorian Police and show our respect by the laying of a wreath on our police memorial, lowering our flags to half-mast. A blue-ribbon from the Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation will be placed on the memorial of each of our fallen police officers.
In the year 2020 we have had significant challenges, but none more so than what Victorian Police has had to deal with. On behalf of all the team and employees at SMCT we want to say thank you and show our gratitude for your bravery and your leadership.