Area law enforcement agencies are hosting a community event, the Law Enforcement Memorial River Walk, on the evening of Tuesday May 17 along the Animas River in Durango. Besides a walk to remember law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty, there will be a variety of displays and information stations at both ends and along the walk.
The event is a chance for citizens and law enforcement officers to meet in a social setting.
In Bayfield, several businesses are selling "Thin Blue Line" flags to honor local law enforcement, said Marshal Joe McIntyre. Proceeds from the sales are used for the marshal's office scholarship. T-shirts are also for sale at the marshal's office.
Tuesday's activities begin at 7:30 p.m. at the La Plata County Fairgrounds with the walk commencing from the Durango Recreation Center. The 2.5 mile round-trip route starts at the paved trail near the Rec Center and proceeds south, across the foot bridge to Rotary Park where a combined Law Enforcement Honor Guard will hold vigil as bagpipers play. Participants in the walk will receive small "blue light" flashlights (funded by community organizations) and blue ribbons provided by C.O.P.S. (Concerns Of Police Survivors) until supplies run out.
Informational posters will be found along the route. Organizers ask that those taking part in the Walk do so with subdued respect as they remember those who lost their lives in the line of duty including three officers in Colorado in the past few months. During the Walk, the Fort Lewis College ceremonial cannon will be fired from the college mesa every few minutes for a total of eight times, as a salute to eight area officers killed in the line of duty over the years.
Planned displays and information booths include art by local students; PoliceK-9 Foundation; law enforcement vehicles and equipment; BlueLight Campaign; Fraternal Order of Police; "Shop With a Cop" program; Honor Booth; and the Interface Critical Incident Stress Management Team.
"This is an opportunity for the community to show their support for their law enforcement officers who are part of the community, and is also a chance for officers to interact with the community they serve," said Lt. Ed Aber with La Plata County Sheriff's Office.
More information can be found at www.facebook.com/LawEnforcementMemorialRiverWalk or by contacting Aber at Ed.Aber@co.laplata.co.us or 382-7068.
