LAKELAND, Fla. (WFLA) – About 800 people came out early Saturday morning to assist officers killed in their duties.
The Lakeland Police Foundation hosted the 9th Fallen Heroes Memorial 5K at The Three Parks Trail.
Everyone who crossed the finish line raised support for local law enforcement, honoring officers killed in their duties and raising funds for the Lakeland Police Foundation.
“This is all about remembering an officer who gave life and made the ultimate sacrifice,” said Lakeland Police Chief Sam Taylor.
The Lakeland Police Foundation hosts the event, reminiscing about his murder and raising funds to support executives and their families during times of hardship.
“The Lakeland Police Foundation launched the race nine years ago as a way to honor the seven men who died on missions at our agency, the Lakeland Police Department, and since then it has become even more.” “It has become a community event where we can honor other law enforcement officials who have passed away.
Some runners have written down the names of the Lakeland police officers who were killed.
“As Officer Crispin, who lost his life in caring for each of us here, this is the least possible thing to do to pay him and his family back,” Linda Martinez said.
Other runners ran for officers killed in other state duties.
“His name is Nick Oara. I didn’t know him personally, but I know his children really well. I know how much they loved him and how devastated he was when he died,” said Adam Smith, who ran for the officer killed in Alabama.
Many who showed up at the event were proud to see the blue support of men and women.
“I work at the desk. What they do is for them to risk their lives every day for me and keep us safe. That’s what brought me here today,” said runner Donna Hughes.
“I’ve been doing this for 35 years and this kind of soul feeds your soul when you come out and the majority of people understand that they like police and that they support our work,” Prime Minister Taylor said.
Runners of all ages honor, remember, and remember the memories of those killed for being alive.
Organizers said they intend to continue this event and that this is the biggest community event they have.
For more information about Lakeland Police Foundation and The Memorial Race, click here.
