The Panama City Police Department gathered for a law enforcement memorial service on Thursday as part of National Police Week.

The service honored the role of law enforcement officers in the community and those who have fallen.

PCPD, the Panama City Commission, Tyndall Air Force Base, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and family members of those who serve were all present at the service.

“Unfortunately, we have to have a service like this because officers die in the line of duty. So this is an opportunity for us to recognize them, their sacrifice to their communities, but also to recognize and support their families who have lost their loved ones in service,” said Panama City Police Chief Scott Ervin.

“It’s really about honoring those that have come before us – all that they’ve stood for. All that they’ve done,” said FL Fish and Wildlife Conservation Investigations Captain Mark Clements.

“It just calls to mind the seriousness of the job we do. The fact that every day we go out the door, we don’t know what to expect. We don’t know if we’ll return home, but, yet, we go out that door knowing it’s what we were called to do,” said Chief Ervin.

“Honoring the legacy of all law enforcement officers nationwide, as well as the ones in Florida – it means a lot to us to show that respect to them and carry on that proud tradition,” said Captain Clements.

“I’ve served this community here at the Panama City Police Department for over eighteen years, almost twenty five collectively, and each day, it’s that one little thing where you’re able to help that person that’s been oppressed or help that victim in a crime, bring justice to them, to console those families and make a difference and impact their lives. That’s what keeps me going,” said Chief Ervin.

“For me, it’s very fulfilling in many ways. A lot of times, it’s just about doing what’s right and helping people to sometimes see that and making sure that people feel comfortable in their communities and in their homes, and setting that good example for others, as well,” said Captain Clements.

Eight officers were killed in the line of duty in the State of Florida in 2016. All of them were honored today.