Police Remembrance Day

Media Release

EMBARGOED UNTIL 5:00 A.M. 29 SEPTEMBER 2009
29 September 2009

Police Remembrance Day

Police around New Zealand are today reflecting on those who have lost their lives in service to the society they swore to protect, as they mark Police Remembrance Day.

“The killing of Senior Constable Len Snee in Napier this year was a sobering reminder that in today’s volatile environment, even seemingly routine police tasks can quickly become life-threatening situations,” Police Association President Greg O’Connor said.

“Senior Constable Len Snee, and Sergeants Derek Wootton and Don Wilkinson just months before him, went to work in the morning knowing their job was dangerous, but also with an unshakable belief it was job that had to be done. Tragically, none of those men returned home. They made the ultimate sacrifice to the society they swore to defend.

“Today, thousands of police around New Zealand go to work themselves with that thought foremost in their minds, and with a renewed determination to honour the memory of those who have given their lives, through their own service as police.”

Mr O’Connor also noted that many Police staff, and others, are today wearing the huia feather-shaped Police Remembrance Pin. The Pin, introduced in 2007 by the Police Association in partnership with Police, provides a way for people to show their remembrance.

“Wearing the Police Remembrance Pin on Remembrance Day is a sign of respect for those who have lost their lives in service to society,” Mr O’Connor said.

“The growing observance of Police Remembrance Day, which parallels a resurgence in the recognition of Anzac Day, is both heartening and humbling. Police can see the support shown not only by their colleagues, but also by ordinary New Zealanders who are moved to publicly acknowledge the sacrifices others have made for their safety.”

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