PERU- An inscription on the memorial stone in front of the Indiana State Police Peru Post reads, “We Will Remember Them.” That promise was kept when local law enforcement officers, retired state police employees, local government officials, and family members of the fallen joined employees from the Indiana State Police Peru Post as they paid tribute to the 49 Indiana State Police employees who died in the line of duty since the department’s inception in 1933.
Since the early days of the Indiana State Police, the month of May has been marked by solemn memorial services at all Indiana State Police Posts. These services hold a profound significance, serving as a poignant tribute to the ultimate sacrifice made by state police employees who died while serving and protecting the citizens and visitors of Indiana. Equally, they are a testament to the enduring memory of these fallen heroes, ensuring their families know that their sacrifice and the memory of their loved ones will never be forgotten.
Yesterday’s service started with troopers standing at parade rest as Captain Jeremy Kelly, Area I commander for the Indiana State Police, started the ISP Peru Annual Memorial Service. ISP Superintendent Douglas Carter then provided a roll call of the fallen employees, followed by Lieutenant T.J. Zeiser, commander of the Indiana State Police Peru Post, who briefly described what led to the fallen employees’ final call. The solemn ceremony ended with the playing of Amazing Grace by a bagpipe and Taps by a bugler.
