In a solemn ceremony held at the State Capitol, Secretary of Alabama Law Enforcement, Hal Taylor stood with Governor Kay Ivey, Attorney General Steve Marshall and other distinguished officials to honor the brave law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty. The annual event, organized by the Alabama Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), brought together families, colleagues, and public citizens to pay tribute during the Fallen Officer Memorial Service.
“Today, we remember not only the brave actions of these fallen officers but the spirit and commitment with which they served our communities and the State of Alabama. They are true heroes whose legacies will not be forgotten,” said Secretary Taylor. "To the families, we are forever indebted to your loved ones who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Their courage, honor, and unwavering commitment to safeguarding our communities will always be remembered and revered. To every family member, please know that your loss is felt deeply by all of us, and your heroes will forever hold a place of honor in the heart of our state."
A wreath was laid to commemorate the fallen at the foot of the Alabama’s fallen memorial statue located on the South Lawn of the State Capitol. Engraved on the memorial are the words, “Geater love hath no man that this: that he gives his life to save a friend. Law Enforcement Officers do even more. Sometimes they give their lives to save a stranger.”
The ceremony included the reading of the names of the officers who have died in the last year, followed by a moment of silence and the playing of Taps. The Officers who were tragically killed in the line of duty in 2023 are: Huntsville Police Officer Garrett Crumby, Alabama Port Authority Police Officer Kimberly Sickafoose, and Montgomery Police Officer Carlos Taylor.