People across the state today paused to honour police officers killed in the line of duty, including South Australia Police's (SAPOL) Brevet Sergeant Jason Doig PBM LEM.
Ahead of National Police Remembrance Day on Sunday, many united to pay their respects at locations including SAPOL's Police Academy, the Riverland's Banrock Station and at Mount Gambier and Port Pirie police stations.
Observed on 29 September each year, the national day provides an opportunity to acknowledge the dangers of policing. This year recognises the 62 dedicated SAPOL members and those from other Australian and South West Pacific police jurisdictions who have made the ultimate sacrifice when protecting the community.
Commissioner of Police Grant Stevens APM LEM attended the National Police Remembrance Day memorial service in Canberra, where Brevet Sergeant Doig's name was added to the National Police Memorial.
"This year's remembrance is particularly poignant as we reflect on the life of Brevet Sergeant Jason Doig who died in the line of duty last November after being shot by an armed offender at Senior," Commissioner Stevens said.
"Brevet Sergeant Doig served his community with distinction, displaying honour and courage in performing his duties while knowing the risks his job entailed.
"The profound outpouring of grief across South Australia Police and throughout the South Australian community, highlighted the esteem in which Brevet Sergeant Doig was held."
Brevet Sergeant Doig's family attended a private ceremony on 5 September 2024 to unveil his plaque on the Wall of Remembrance at SAPOL's Academy. At this ceremony, Brevet Sergeant Doig was also posthumously awarded the South Australia Police Bravery Medal and Leadership and Efficiency Medal, adding to other accolades.
Commissioner Stevens recognised the commitment of all police officers, past and present.
"National Police Remembrance Day provides a valuable opportunity to reflect upon those who serve and those who have fallen, recalling their unquestionable dedication to our profession and our community at large," he added.
"While our people on the frontline of operational policing face the inherent dangers of the profession, it takes commitment and support from all members of the organisation to ensure the South Australian community receives the best possible service."
SA Governor Her Excellency, the Honourable Frances Adamson AC joined Deputy Commissioner Linda Williams APM, Minister of Police Dan Cregan, and other dignitaries at SAPOL's academy this morning to pay their respects at the wall of remembrance. A riderless horse also formed part of the commemoration.
Minister for Police Dan Cregan said the day is a reminder of the bravery shown by South Australian Police.
"Every officer deserves the right to come home and we must never forget those on the frontline who put themselves in danger to keep our community safe," Minister Cregan said.
"Brevet Sergeant Jason Doig paid the ultimate price for doing his job and this is a solemn occasion to pay tribute to the courage, commitment and dedication of police."
In further acknowledgement, on Sunday several venues and locations across metropolitan Adelaide will light up in blue and white police chequering, including Adelaide Oval's southern stand, Riverbank precinct footbridge, Adelaide Convention Centre, Adelaide Town Hall, and the O-Bahn tunnel. SAPOL's police headquarters on Angas Street will also light up from tonight (Friday) through to Sunday.
Breakout
This year we remember: South Australia Police: Brevet Sergeant Jason Christopher Doig who died on the 17November 2023 after being shot at Senior in the South East.
New South Wales Police:Sergeant Peter Thomas Stone who drowned on the 1 January 2023 while attempting to rescue his son.
We also commemorate another addition to this year's honour roll: Western Australia Police: Senior Constable Glenn Murray who died on the 6 December 2022 after receiving serious injuries in a car accident.
We also acknowledge two historical additions to the National Police Memorial: Northern Territory Police: Mounted Constable Thomas Edward McNulty who died on the 28 November 1917 from drowning after falling overboard from the 'Albatross'. Mounted Constable Arthur Robinson Clapp who died on the 5November 1927 from a gunshot wound to the leg after seizing a pistol and securing it in his belt.
Caption: The National Carillon building in Canberra lit up as a tribute to Brevet Sergeant Jason Doig.
SA Governor Her Excellency, the Honourable Frances Adamson AC with Deputy Commissioner of Police Linda Williams APM at the Police Academy's service on Friday 27 September.
