5-12-21 CPD & HCSO Host Law Enforcement Memorial Service

The wreath laying ceremony celebrated the service and commemorated the sacrifice made by the members of all law enforcement agencies who have died in service of Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and other municipalities within the county since the late 1800s. The most recent being two CPD Officers, Officer Nicholas Galinger and Sergeant Joseph Montijo, who gave their lives in the line of duty in 2019.   

“In a season when so many lives have been lost, I’m humbled and honored to be able to recognize not only Officer Galinger and Sergeant Montijo, but also pay tribute in this small way to the many officers and their families who gave all to helping others,” said Chief David Roddy.

As part of this year’s service, Chief Roddy and Sheriff Hammond welcomed cyclists participating in the Law Enforcement United Road to Hope across Tennessee. Approximately 50 law enforcement officers, including eight with the Chattanooga Police Department, and survivors rode 270 miles in 3 days in honor of fallen law enforcement officers. 

“Each year as we observe National Police Week, we remember our colleagues and in many cases, our friends, who have given the ultimate sacrifice for their community,” stated Sheriff Jim Hammond. “Every day, thousands of law enforcement personnel don the badge and uniform of their respective agency and go forth into the world not knowing if they will return safely to their families. During this special week, we recognize the legacy and sacrifice of our community’s law enforcement and honor those who have been killed in the line of duty,” he further noted.

National Police Week occurs every May. In 2020, 362 federal, state, military, tribal and local law enforcement officers died in the line of duty, 264 of those were from COVID-19. That’s according to the Officer Down Memorial Page. 

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