Fallen officers remembered

Broome police officers were joined by members of the community for a gathering at the memorial garden of the Broome Police Complex last week to pay tribute to their fallen colleagues and mark National Police Remembrance Day.

Each year the names of fallen officers are etched onto the National Police Memorial wall in Canberra, the total number of names now stands at 754, including 82 from WA.

Remembrance services have been held since 1989 on or near September 29, to coincide with the Feast Day of St Michael, the patron saint of police officers.

Sergeant Paul Vargas started proceedings with a prayer, asking for the "strength to meet the ever-increasing challenges" police encountered in their career. Reverend Darrell McKerlie administered prayers and blessings, while Inspector Shayne Atkins and retired inspector Jim Cave read aloud names of the fallen.

Acting officer-in-charge Sgt Steven Walker placed a pair of handcuffs, a cap and a police radio at the monument to symbolise policing across all sections of the WA force.

The handcuffs represented the overall fight against crime, a cap symbolising the dedication and commitment of frontline officers and a police radio to signify the importance of communication between police and the community.

Police officers laid wreaths before members of the public were invited to come forward and pay their respects, followed by a minute's silence.

Kimberley District Superintendent Mick Sutherland said it was important to mark the occasion in memory of those who died and pay respect to family members who were left behind.

Dist Supt Sutherland said the service was an opportunity for police to pause and reflect and for community members to publicly show support.