Fallen law enforcement officers honored at Missouri State Capitol
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KMIZ)
Saturday morning, Missouri law enforcement gathered at the State Capitol for its 37th annual memorial service, dedicated to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Four officers were honored this year, their names added to the Missouri Law Enforcement Memorial alongside over 700 others who lost their lives in the line of duty.
A candlelight vigil was held on Friday, at the Law Enforcement Memorial in Lae to honor the memory of all Missouri law enforcement officers. Gov. Mike Parson ordered that the Capitol dome and Law Enforcement Memorial be lit up in blue on Friday night.
"But we also do it to honor those who came before us and who have fallen in the line of duty to carry out their mission," said State Attorney, Andrew Bailey.
For the past thirty-seven years, Missouri law enforcement has observed this solemn occasion on the first Saturday of May. This tradition not only pays tribute to those who have passed but also honors their enduring legacy of service and sacrifice.
“We can never repay the immense debt we owe those who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect us, but we are eternally grateful for their selfless service and vow to continue to support their families and loved ones” said Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe.
This year, the service recognized Officer James Muehlbauer & K-9 Champ of the Kansas City Police Department, who tragically lost their life in a vehicle crash on Feb. 15, 2023.
Detective Sergeant Mason Griffith of the Hermann Police Department was remembered for his bravery on March 12, 2023, when he was fatally shot at a Casey convenience store. Griffith's funeral service drew hundreds of mourners who gathered to pay their respects. A former colleague of Griffith reflected on his unwavering dedication, stating that Griffith was born with a calling to protect and serve.
"That's what I firmly believe Mason was destined to fulfill. From a young age, he recognized his purpose - to serve and shield. And every day, he fulfilled that duty with remarkable honor and unwavering integrity," remarked Hermann Police Chief Marlon Walker during the solemn ceremony.
Corrections Officer Kelly Rolando of the Missouri Department of Corrections was honored for her service. He lost her life in a vehicle crash on Oct. 22, 2023. Additionally, Functional Unit Manager Jason Pulliam, also from the Missouri Department of Corrections, was remembered for his dedication. He passed due to COVID-19 while contracted in the line of duty on Oct. 15, 2021.
During the service, the commitment of law enforcement to pursuing justice and ensuring community safety was highlighted.
"We have defended more than 400 convictions on appeal to ensure those who harm our communities stay behind bars," said Bailey. "We have increased criminal prosecution at the attonrey general's office by 133%, "
More than 20 family members and friends stood in line to place a white carnation on a wreath in honor of their loved one who had passed away.
