Today National Police Remembrance Day memorial services will be held to remember the 61 dedicated SA Police officers, and those from other Australasian jurisdictions, who have lost their lives in the line of duty, according to SA Police.
In Adelaide, Commissioner Grant Stevens will host a public service at 11am at the Police Academy Wall of Remembrance.
This year Adelaide Oval’s southern stand will also be illuminated in the traditional chequered band colours of the South Australia Police to recognise their dedication and service.
An address by the President of the SA Police Historical Society, Bill Prior, will pay tribute to Senior Constable Harold Rae Pannell who was shot dead while attending a farming property at Bow Hill, 32km from Karoonda, on 12 March 1957.
Senior Constable Pannell was buried with full police honours at Centennial Park Cemetery on 14 March and a memorial recognising his sacrifice was later erected at Karoonda.
National Police Remembrance Day is an opportunity to acknowledge the dangers of the policing profession, reflect upon the sacrifices made by dedicated officers and focus on the challenges that lie ahead. First held in 1989, it is one of the most important days on the policing calendar.
