Elgin police remember the fallen

An initiative to honor retired Elgin police officers officially was unveiled Tuesday afternoon after the annual police memorial ceremony.

Elgin police held the event — part of National Police Week — in front of its downtown headquarters to honor officers who were killed in the line of duty across the country.

“Most people go through their days without a single thought about their safety,” Police Chief Jeff Swoboda said. “They are able to do that because police officers dedicate their lives to protecting them and keeping the peace. Spending time each year to remember those who gave their life is only fitting.”

A total of 117 law enforcement officers died in the line of duty in 2014, a 9 percent increase from 2013 when 107 officers were killed, according to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. More than 40 officers have died in the line of duty this year, almost half in traffic-related accidents.

The Elgin Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association is raising money to create a future memorial or monument to honor retirees.

To that end, the association is selling $50 commemorative brick pavers that can be named after current or retired employees, including civilians, as well as volunteers of the police department. The first 145 pavers were installed in late April outside the police department and officially were unveiled with a ribbon cutting Tuesday.

“I am excited to start the process of getting a permanent memorial to honor those who served this community,” Swoboda said. “I think we should always remember and thank those who went before us and who gave so much to this community.”

People can also purchase the pavers as personal keepsakes. Anyone interested in purchasing a commemorative brick should contact Christy Schmidt at (847) 289-2588 or schmidt_c@cityofelgin.org.