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Black Badge Ribbon
The black ribbon placed over the badge is worn to symbolize the law enforcement community in mourning.
Bagpipes
The history of the bagpipes for officers in the United States originates from law enforcement and fire fighters in the eastern states. Most
officers were of Irish decent and bagpipes traditionally announced the Queen Army marching to and from battle. With its beautiful tones, it is traditional to honor the officer and the family.
Riderless Horse
Symbolize the rider not returning. It originates from times when horses were the primary means of transportation. The boots are reversed in
the stirrups symbolizing the missing rider.
Twenty-One Gun Salute
The firing of three volleys, according to ancient belief, will scare away evil spirits. This ceremony was modernized to a twenty-one-gun
salute in the United States.
Taps
Played to honor the fallen officer. Para-military occupation.
Folding of the American Flag
The casket is covered with the American Flag. The flag symbolizes the service of the deceased in the community and the United States. After
folding the flag it is presented to the next of kin.
Funeral Preparation
Funeral Services
The department should make the family aware of what they can offer if the family decides to have a line of duty funeral. The department may
have Standard Operating Procedures in place to use as guidelines. The responsibility of a law enforcement department is to assist the family in planning a funeral for a line of duty death. The funeral ceremony gives
form, structure, and meaning to our feelings. This is a unique opportunity for communication, ventilation, and appropriate acting out. A funeral validates the life of the officer who had more than just the
department. Remember a department represents authority do not take advantage of a family member when assistance is being offered . When assisting a family with a police funeral there will be standard rituals to
honor the fallen officer. The department must also take into consideration ethic, cultural, and religious funeral customs.
Communication
Speak with the family be open, honest, and give an answer when asked a question. If you don't know say that you don't know but you
will find out.
Clarification
Simplify the information and have it typed out for explanation. Repeat- Repeat- Repeat the survivors are in shock.
Compromise
Work with the survivor with respect to the funeral nothing is written in stone.
Compassion
Treat the family as if they were your own. Picture how you would want them to be treated by the members of the fallen officers department.
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