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May 14, 2010
“The foundation of peace”
Mayor George Schloegel
Police memorial address delivered May 14, 2010
Good morning and thank you all for being here.
A memorial can never replace what those of you mourning a loved one have lost, but we pray that you will find some comfort and peace here today.
We pray that you will find strength in knowing that our city will forever grieve with you.
In the coming months, we will open the doors to the new Robert J. Curry Public Safety Center.
And this memorial will be returned back to its home downtown, on peaceful grounds next to the Curry Center.
For all our citizens, this memorial and others like it are lasting reminders of American resilience, American courage and the enduring spirit that makes our country so great.
The strength and resolve of those brave men and women is the essential fabric of our nation.
This memorial is a tribute to those who dedicate their lives to public service and come to work each day to spread the foundation of peace.
Everyday in our cities and counties, these valiant souls kiss their spouses and leave for work in the morning knowing there is a chance they will not return.
They help a young son pack his books for school, knowing there is a chance they will never get to teach him how to catch a baseball.
They teach a baby daughter how to walk, knowing there is a chance they will not be there to walk her down the isle.
Here, at this solemn memorial, we remember those who have died while working to keep us safe.
We mourn with the families they have left behind, and as a city — as a nation — we collectively thank you.
I would like to close by paraphrasing Abraham Lincoln: “Years from now, the words we say here today will not be remembered. But what they did here, will never be forgotten.”
Thank you and may God bless you.
Office of Public Information - rlafontaine@gulfport-ms.gov - Phone: 228-868-5782
P.O. Box 1780 Gulfport, MS 39502-1780 - FAX: 868-5800
