South Central Reporter

Illinois State Rep. C.D. Davidsmeyer (R-Jacksonville) took to Facebook recently to show gratitude for police officers in conjunction with the 2023 Illinois Police Memorial event.

On May 4, the Illinois Police Memorial event commemorated the law-enforcement officers who passed away in 2022 while serving their duties. Davidsmeyer, an Illinois native, attended the event and expressed his admiration on Facebook for his law-enforcement comrades and everyone involved in safeguarding communities.

"Yesterday was the 2023 Illinois Police Memorial event, mourning the loss and celebrating the lives of those law-enforcement officers who lost their lives in the line of duty in 2022," Davidsmeyer said on May 5.

Since the early 1900s, the Illinois Police Officers Memorial Committee has been maintaining records of all officers who have died in the line of duty and has paid tribute to fallen peace officers, like Chicago Police Officer Joseph Driscoll who passed away on Dec. 1, 1903.

In this year's event, the committee paid tribute to the fallen officers of 2022, remembering their sacrifice and service to their communities.

In a news release following the event, Davidsmeyer further expressed his gratitude and support for the families of the fallen officers, acknowledging that he cannot fully understand their loss but is here to support them as they navigate their grief.

"So proud to support my friends in law enforcement and all who work to keep our communities safe," Davidsmeyer said. "To the families, I can’t pretend to understand your loss. I thank you for your sacrifice and am here with you as you find your way."

According to his biography,  Davidsmeyer joined the Illinois House of Representatives in December 2012 and was sworn in for a full term in the 98th General Assembly in January 2013. A Jacksonville resident, Davidsmeyer joined the local Chamber of Commerce, Rotary and Library Board in 2008.

The Illinois Police Memorial event serves as a reminder of the risks that law-enforcement officers face every day in carrying out their duties to protect and serve their communities. It also highlights the importance of supporting the families of fallen officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their fellow citizens.