Windsor

Windsor police remember those who have served

Windsor's police service held their annual memorial appreciation service on Monday, in recognition of officers who have died over the past year.

Service was first in a series of events marking the Windsor force's 150th anniversary

Windsor police stand on guard outside All Saints' Anglican Church. (Meg Roberts/CBC)

Windsor's police force held their annual memorial appreciation service on Monday, in recognition of officers who have died over the past year.

The service also paid tribute to police who lost their lives in the line of duty. Red and white roses were placed on an altar in their honour.

The memorial service is a reminder to surviving family members that police don't forget those who served, said Windsor police chief Al Frederick.

Windsor Chief of Police Al Frederick delivers a speech at memorial service on Monday. (Meg Roberts/CBC)

"I think that there is a recognition within police services that we have significant challenges each and everyday and we overcome by sticking together by comradery, friendship and working so closely with our community," he said. "I think we locally have had some great successes doing that."

Officers, family, friends and community members gather for a memorial service in honour of Windsor police officers. (Meg Roberts/CBC)

"Thanks for what you do every day"

The Walkerville Collegiate Institute choir sang as pews full of officers, family, friends and community members silently sat in the pews.

"It's really about the opportunity for the community to say thanks, thanks for what you do every day," said Reverend Chuck Congram, who serves as police chaplain.

Monday's service was the first in a series of events marking the  150th anniversary of the Windsor Police Service, with additional events taking place through the week.