JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Today a service to pay tribute to fallen officers and their surviving family and friends was held in Jacksonville. Since 1840, 61 officers have died in the line of duty in Jacksonville. The most recent name added to the memorial wall is Officer Mark Larson, who lost his arm and broke both legs when a suspect held on to him and drove off after a traffic stop.
The peaceful ceremony comes after a violent month in Jacksonville.
"For more than 40 years I've seen 23 names added to the wall," said Sheriff John Rutherford.
"I have to support my husband in death just like i did in life," said Erica Larson.
"Every day the brave men and women of this department risk their lives for this community," said Mayor Alvin Brown.
"He was getting ready to retire in three months," said Lonnie Miller Jr., who followed in his father's footsteps.
"When they leave home you always feel nervous but you ask the Lord for help to get over over that," said Akher Miller, who lost her husband Lonnie Miller Sr. 20 years ago Wednesday.
"He was on his way home but he got called to a burglary scene, upon arriving to the building it was secure," said Miller Jr. "So the officers left my father and the owner there, that's when two suspects came in and tried to rob the place and shots were fired."
"I never thought this would happen to my husband, I still feel numb but we have to move on," said Akher.
"It's like family here. Talking to them makes me feel normal about mine," said Larson, "they know what you're going through, not just losing my husband, but all of this, it's overwhelming."
"You need the help of police officers, clergy, family and friends," said Akher.
"When I walk by and see this, I'm proud," said Miller Jr. as he looked at his father's picture.
At the ceremony, Mayor Alvin Brown declared May 6 Police Memorial Day and the week of May 12 as Police Appreciation Week.
Next week Larson will travel to Washington D.C. for the national memorial service. Mark Larson will be one of nine Florida names added to the national memorial.
