Page 46 - 2018 July Newsletter

Solemn tribute, visit with son mark aiersar of officers deah
n BY DAN CAMPANA
Nine years have passed since gunmen opened fire on Offi- cer Alex Valadez, fatally wounding the three-year veteran as he investigated a shooting in the 6000 block of South Hermitage Avenue.
On June 1, dozens of Chicago Police Officers returned to the site for an outdoor roll call and prayer vigil in honor of the 27-year-old officer. Valadez’s family members, including his son Alex, Jr., held flowers as they sat and listened to department offi- cials, including 7th District Commander Kenneth Johnson, and others speak of their loved one’s sacrifice.
Officers who lined the sidewalk bowed their heads solemnly in prayer and reflection. They also saluted their brother in trib- ute to his dedication to the job.
A week later, a heavy police presence turned out to surprise Alex Valadez, Jr. on his last day of second grade at Annuncia- ta Grammar School on June 8. The look on the boy’s face told the story as he spotted the multitude of officers – including two holding a banner that looked like a city flag and read “Happy Last Day of School Alex” – waiting for him outside the building.
Alex, Jr. received hugs and congratulatory handshakes from uniformed officers and department leaders. He also got an up- close look at a mounted patrol horse, met a K9 unit and even donned a helmet while hanging out with tactical officers. His classmates, faculty and staff also got in on the fun, smiling as
they interacted with the officers.
Officials said they put together the summer send off for the
younger Valadez as a way to show him that his father – whom he never met – would not be forgotten by the department. d
46 CHICAGO LODGE 7 ■ JULY 2018