Police Remembrance Day

Media Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
28 September 2010

Police Remembrance Day

Tomorrow, Police staff and others will be wearing the distinctive huia
feather-shaped Police Remembrance Pin as they reflect on those who have
lost their lives in service to the society they swore to protect. Police
Remembrance Day falls on the 29th September, the feast day of the
Archangel Michael, patron saint of police.

With three officers killed on duty in the last three years, observance of
the occasion has been growing rapidly.

“The killings of Senior Constable Len Snee, Sergeant Derek Wootton and
Sergeant Don Wilkinson all within a relatively short period have been
sobering reminders that even seemingly routine police tasks can quickly
become life-threatening situations,” Police Association President Greg
O’Connor said.

“Those officers made the ultimate sacrifice to the society they swore to
defend.

“Police go to work every day knowing their job is dangerous, but also firm
in the belief it is job that must be done. The tragic deaths in recent
years have brought the potential risk into stark focus, but also steeled
the determination amongst our police to honour the memory of those who
have given their lives, through their own service,” Mr O’Connor said.

The Police Remembrance Pin, introduced in 2007 by the Police Association
in partnership with Police, has also been embraced across Police as 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.

“The growing observance of Police Remembrance Day, similar to the
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,” Mr O’Connor said.

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