F.O.P. to honor 36 fallen officers

The Fraternal Order of Police honored 39 peace officers who lost their lives while protecting our community since 1865.

Nearly every seat was filled at the memorial service that started with a passionate speech by San Luis Police Chief Richard Jessup.

“The next thing we heard was triple nine. that night for YPD became very chaotic,” said Chief Jessup as he recalled the day YPD lost Patrolman Gary Maas on April 9, 1986.

“When I had learned that Gary had lost his life in the line of duty, my heart not only went out to him but his family because they lost a good one,” said Chief Jessup.

Chief Jessup also reminisced on advice he got from the late Lieutenant Danny Elkins.

“He said something to me that will last me forever and I want every law enforcement officer and every family to hear this. that sergeant said rich before your job comes your family. they may not know when you’re coming home because every time you walk out wives or dads never know when their dad is going to return. so, take advantage fully with the time that you have with your family,” recalled Chief Jessup.

This as police were dispatched to Jessup’s own home.

The service honored all those who served in agencies surrounding the Yuma area, including those in the Winterhaven area, will also be honored.

The most recent death was in 2013 when the Department of Public Safety lost Trooper Tim Huffman. Huffman died while in his patrol car near Dateland.