Page 42 - October 2018 FOP Magazine

The candlelight vigil allows family members of fallen officers to take comfort in knowing that the sacrifices of their loved ones are never forgotten.
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money to further support the mission.
“After having so much taken from them, the easy thing to do
would have been to withdraw, but so many of these kids have done just the opposite,” Cline offered.
As moving as the words were, the solemn scene of uniformed officers, families and children provided a memorable context for the night.
In a room bathed in blue, Chicago police cadets stood stoi- cally with signs representing each fallen officer. The CPD Pipes and Drums played “Amazing Grace,” producing a powerful echo throughout the club as attendees young and old stood in appre- ciation. Blue glow sticks provided a gentle brightness as, one by one, family members of fallen officers came up to the stage to illuminate their loved one by reading the officer’s name.
One speaker summed it up by describing the light as a spirit carried in the hearts of all who knew the officers. Chicago Police
Superintendent Eddie Johnson and Mayor Rahm Emanuel car- ried that message in their warm words of support and praise.
“We’re here tonight to honor 582 Chicago Police Officers who lost their lives for the noblest of causes: protecting the lives of others,” Johnson shared. “We may not have known all of the men and women whose names we will recite tonight, but we have been touched by their virtue.”
Johnson later became visibly emotional, wiping away tears, as he honored Commander Paul Bauer for the first time at the vigil. Bauer died on duty in February, becoming the latest to have his name added to the memorial.
Emanuel reassured those mourning their lost loved ones that they will never be alone.
“The entire family in many ways serves with the individual who puts on the Chicago Police Officers’ uniform,” Emanuel said. “This ceremony is a way for all of us to remind you that you are part of Chicago’s family, and we are part of your family.” d
42 CHICAGO LODGE 7 ■ OCTOBER 2018