On Saturday morning, the Tampa Police Department hosted its 30th annual Tampa Police Memorial Run-Walk, bringing together the community in a heartfelt tribute.
Every year, the community unites to honor officers who lost their lives in the line of duty, ensuring their sacrifices are never forgotten.
Hundreds Run to Support 32 Fallen Officers
Hundreds of people laced up their shoes to support the 32 fallen officers of the Tampa Police Department. Beyond honoring the officers and their families, the event helps fund scholarships, the memorial, and the museum’s upkeep.
“These officers lost their lives in the most honorable, most profound way that you can as a police officer, and we continue to honor that every year at this run,” said Captain Benjamin Brown with TPD.
Each Name Represents the Ultimate Sacrifice
Each name etched on the memorial represents someone who took an oath and paid the ultimate price to protect their community.
“I just want the community to know that we are always here for them, that we are out here protecting them, protecting property and life, and sometimes it becomes the ultimate sacrifice for us,” said Capt. Brown.
A Daughter Honors Her Fallen Father
“My dad was a fallen police officer, Detective Randy Bell. He died in the line of duty on May 19th, 1998. So, 26 years ago, I was 14 at the time,” shared Officer Ashley Bell.
Officer Ashley Bell now proudly wears her father’s badge number as she patrols the streets, and each person who came out to support the event feels like family to her.
“26 years later, and it still feels like yesterday. To me, it shows the support, for sure. I don’t really have words—it just really shows a lot of support for me and our families that still have to grieve,” she said.
Running in Tribute to the Fallen
TPD officers paid special tribute to their own during the run.
“Over the years, we’ve lost 32. Obviously, if that number increases, it’s a run for 33. Hopefully, we never have to see that happen. You’ll see runners with a gray shirt like this running specifically for an officer that has died,” said Capt. Brown.
“There will be 32 sworn Tampa Police officers wearing armbands with each officer’s name, and they’ll run in formation for each of our fallen officers. So, it’s just a great, fun day to come out and just enjoy being around each other,” said Deputy Chief Ruth Cate.
A Day of Memories, Honor, and Support
The day was filled with memories, honor, and heartfelt support from all who attended.
“There are police officers, there’s family, there’s community—everybody is coming out and having a great time. What a better way to run from the police and get away with it,” joked Chief Lee Bercaw.
“It’s very touching to think about the officers who put their life on the line every day to keep us safe, so we appreciate it,” said Karen Skeen, one of the attendees.
“Every day they go out there and protect us, and we appreciate them,” added Nancy Pesquera, another attendee.
Resilience Amid Challenges
The run, originally scheduled for October, was postponed due to hurricanes. Despite the delay, TPD expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming turnout.
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