Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond on Sunday reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening the Guyana Police Force (GPF) as the nation honoured officers who died in the line of duty during the Force’s 187th Anniversary Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Fallen But Not Forgotten Heroes Monument at the Police Officers’ Mess Annexe, Eve Leary, Georgetown. Delivering the feature address, Walrond described the ceremony as one of profound national significance, saying it serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by members of the Force in the protection of the nation. She said every name engraved on the monument represents a life dedicated to protecting others and a family whose sacrifice can never truly be measured. The Home Affairs Minister reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening the GPF through continued investment in training, technology, equipment, infrastructure and operational capacity. According to Walrond, honouring those who made the ultimate sacrifice must also include ensuring that the men and women who continue to serve are equipped and supported to carry out their duties.

No words could erase grief

Speaking directly to the families of fallen Police Officers, she acknowledged that no words could erase their grief but assured them that the courage, sacrifice and service of their loved ones will forever remain part of the proud history of the GPF and the nation. Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken, in his address, described the memorial as more than stone and engraved names, calling it a sacred symbol of devotion, courage and selfless service. He reminded serving ranks that every officer whose name appears on the monument answered the call to duty without knowing whether that shift would be their last, yet served with honour, integrity and unwavering commitment. Quoting renowned mythologist Joseph Campbell, Hicken said, “A hero is someone who has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself.” “These words capture the very essence of why we are gathered here today. They remind us that true heroism is not defined by rank, title, or public recognition, but by a commitment to a cause greater than oneself. It is reflected in the courage to place duty above self, service above comfort, and the safety of others above personal interest. Our fallen heroes embodied these values and it is their sacrifice and legacy that we honour today,” the commissioner stated. Reflecting on the history of the monument, Hicken explained that it was established in 2002 under the leadership of then Commissioner of Police Laurie Lewis to permanently honour members of the GPF who lost their lives in the execution of their duties. Since then, he said, the annual wreath-laying ceremony has become one of the Force’s most solemn traditions during its anniversary celebrations.