Idaho law enforcement gathered in Meridian Thursday to honor fallen officers at the 19th Annual Idaho Peace Officers Memorial ceremony.
Officers from across the state paid respect today to the 71 officers that have died in the line of duty in Idaho. Hundreds of people joined together with law enforcement as the memorial bell was rung to honor each officer.
The memorial dates back to 1883 when Boise County Sheriff's deputy V. Walter Coffin was killed in the line of duty.
No officers were added to the memorial wall this year, but Boise Police Officer Kevin Holtry, who was injured on duty last year, was honored today as the keynote speaker.
Holtry spoke about being shot and paralyzed while searching for a wanted suspect in November.
“You know what the risks are, you accept them," he said. "Everybody knows this job is dangerous, but go out every day thinking in your mind that you may be put in that same position."
Lt. Gov. Brad Little also spoke during the service, saying it's honor to serve a state filled with brave men and women.
"It speaks to our core belief about how people who put their lives at risk that we have their back, that it's incredibly imortant to us and that's why Idaho is such a great place to live."
The Idaho Peace Officers Memorial is aimed at making sure officers' sacrifices are always remembered. To pay tribute to all officers who have dedicated themselves to protection of life and property, and to provide a place where survivors can spend time in quiet reflection.
Thursday’s event coincides with National Police Week.