New Memorial Monument Commemorated During Virtual Police and Fire Memorial Ceremony

Long Beach, CA - Earlier today, the City of Long Beach commemorated its new Police and Fire Memorial Monument during a virtual Police and Fire Memorial Ceremony. The ceremony is a longstanding tradition for the Police and Fire Departments and pays tribute to the 29 police employees and 14 firefighters who have lost their lives in service to our community. The memorial monument, installed at the Long Beach Civic Center, is a collaborative effort by the City of Long Beach and numerous business and community leaders.

'For many years to come, this monument will honor the brave individuals who lost their lives protecting our community,' said Mayor Robert Garcia. 'Our new memorial is reflective of their service and sacrifice.'

This year's ceremony included remarks by Mayor Robert Garcia, Police Chief Robert Luna and Fire Chief Xavier Espino. The ceremony also included the posting of the colors, flag presentation, a 'Last Alarm' tribute, and a 21-gun salute, consisting of three ceremonial gunshot volleys, by the Long Beach Police and Fire Honor Guards.

'I would like to recognize the men and women of our police department for the sacrifices they make on a daily basis to serve our community. They continue to represent our department with honor and dignity in the most trying of times,' said Police Chief Robert Luna. 'I thank the City for providing this location in Civic Center Plaza for our new Police and Fire Memorial to honor the brave men and women of the Police and Fire Departments who have made the ultimate sacrifice in laying down their lives in service of others. We are grateful for our City, business and community partners who have done so much to memorialize them.'

'As we pay our respects to those who have fallen in the line of duty, let us never forget the families and loved ones they left behind,' said Fire Chief Xavier Espino. 'Their loss is etched into the history of our city and our fire department just like their names are etched symbolically on the bronze folded flags throughout our new Police and Fire Memorial. Their sacrifice is something that we must stay mindful of. They are not simply names to be forgotten by history; we must remember the stories behind each amazing individual who gave their life in pursuit of faithful service to our City, State and our Nation, no matter the cost.'

Community members may watch the Police and Fire Memorial Ceremony on the following City platforms: