PORT Stephens LAC Police Officers last week attended the Newcastle, Sydney and Canberra ceremonies to commemorate Police Remembrance Day.

National Police Remembrance Day is an annual event that commemorates the service and sacrifice of the 254 members of the NSW Police Force who have lost their lives in the line of duty since the formation of the NSW Police Force in 1862.

This year, New South Wales Police Force members, colleagues, family, friends and supporters paused to remember two of their beloved policing colleagues who passed away during the last twelve months; Curtis Cheng and Sergeant Geoffrey Richardson.

This years’ service was especially hard for our Port Stephens officers in attendance, with Geoffrey Richardson being one of our own local officers.

Port Stephens LAC Superintendent Christopher Craner told News Of The Area, “National Police Remembrance Day this year for Port Stephens was even more personal for the local police and community.”

“Having lost Sgt Richardson in March 2016, a number of officers attended a local Newcastle ceremony, the Sydney ceremony and National ceremony later that day in Canberra,” he said.

Sergeant Geoffrey Richardson lost his life when the police car he was driving left the road, and crashed into a tree, on his way to assist colleagues who were engaged in a pursuit.

Superintendent Craner personally attended the Sydney and National ceremonies, accompanying Margaret Richardson – Sergeant Richardson’s widow.

“It was a day to reflect, but also a day to shed a tear, laugh together and be united with all police across Australia – This day is also about community, and their support on the day was heartwarming,” Superintendent Craner told News Of The Area.

 

By Rachael VAUGHAN