A fitting national tribute to Hartzell, other fallen officers

A fitting national tributeto Hartzell, other fallen officers
Over the weekend, thousands gathered in the nation's capital to honor the memory of the 145 police officers -- including Youngstown Patrolman Michael Thomas Hartzell -- who lost their lives in the line of duty in 2003.
The ceremonies, sponsored by the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund and punctuated by an emotional tribute from President Bush on Saturday, served as a fitting and high-profile reminder of the heroism, professionalism and selflessness of America's front-line state and local law enforcers.
This year, 362 new names were inscribed on the walls of the national memorial, including that of Hartzell, who was shot and killed in downtown Youngstown on April 29, 2003. The name of William Comm, a Youngstown State University officer who died before the memorial was constructed, was also added this year. Comm died of a heart attack after a foot pursuit of a vandalism suspect on campus in August 1975.
Adorned with roses, ribbons and other keepsakes, the memorial wall at Judiciary Square in Washington now includes the names of 16,500 officers who died protecting their communities.
Bush, Ashcroft remarks
Their deaths and the life-threatening danger inherent to law enforcement careers took center stage in Bush's keynote address: "That is part of the heroism of law enforcement -- knowing that the most routine calls can turn suddenly violent.
"Our fallen officers died in service to justice, and in defense of the innocent. They will never be forgotten by their comrades; they will never be forgotten by their country."
In a candlelight vigil for the fallen officers at the memorial, U.S. Attorney General John Ashcroft put in perspective the noble ideals the fallen officers defended to their deaths: "Tonight is a night that reminds us that we must never take our life or liberty, our peace or security for granted. The men and women we honor here gave their lives so that these values will endure."
Enduring tributes
Friends, family members and comrades of Hartzell's recognize that fundamental contribution. It is evident in the enduring wreaths, candles and other temporary memorials still in place in front of the Federal Street storefront where Hartzell was gunned down. It is also evident in the ongoing benefits and scholarships in his name.
It will now also be evident in the Hartzell and Cumm panels of the national police memorial where the message of heroism will resonate permanently.