Police memorial procession today in Tacoma

Today, 20,000 people will pay final their respects to Lakewood police Sgt. Mark Renninger and officers Tina Griswold, Greg Richards and Ronald Owens, killed last week. The memorial procession will start at 10 a.m. today and head toward the Tacoma Dome. It will conclude at about noon. If you’re attending, here’s a nice piece from Kits Merryman on how to appropriately show respect for the officers.

“It’s like when the American flag passes by,” [said Lt. Rodney Rochon, a member of the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard]. “As the vehicles with the caskets go by, you stand with your hand over your heart. Honors are rendered to the fallen officers and the families of the fallen officers equally.”

I’d like to add my sincere condolences to the families of the officers, their friends and loved ones. It’s a terrible tragedy to lose people who were so dedicated to upholding the law and who dedicated their lives to serve the community and protect it. It’s a great loss, and one that will be felt for a long time. I know that we all feel that loss, and our hearts and support are with the families.