Troy Police to Honor Fallen Officers, Host Open House This Week

The preceding following was provided by Lt. Robert Redmond of the Troy Police Department.

The will host an open house this Tuesday from noon-7 p.m. at the station. Attendees can tour the building, have their child fingerprinted, check out a patrol vehicle, watch a K-9 demonstration, receive bicycle safety checks and attend presentations on stranger danger, home safety, internet safety and bullying.

The department will also host its annual Police Memorial Day and on Thursday. The Memorial Day Ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. in the circle drive at the main entrance to the Troy Police Department. 

In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will be conducted inside the City Council Chambers. The Awards Ceremony will be held at the at 11 a.m. Thursday.

The Troy Police Department cordially invites all members of the community to gather for a day of remembrance and tribute. Through its Memorial Ceremony, the department comes together annually to not only honor those from the department who have made the ultimate sacrifice for this community, but also those across the nation who have fallen in the line of duty throughout the law enforcement family. The Awards Ceremony provides an opportunity to pay tribute not only to acts of courage, but also acts of compassion, dedication, and service by both citizens and department personnel that took place over the preceding year. 

Troy Police Officer Charles C. Smetana died on December 11, 1969. While responding to an injury accident, he himself became involved in a crash. Officer Smetana was only 33 when he gave his life trying to help others in need. His sacrifice will always be remembered and is humbly carried forward each and every day by the members of this organization.

Officer Martin D. Chivas was shot and killed on April 22, 1974 while investigating a burglary in progress. The suspects were prison escapees and were in the midst of a multi-state crime spree. Officer Chivas was only 24 years old when he laid down his life. His sacrifice, like that of so many, stands as a lasting tribute to the honor and dedication inherent in those called to this profession.

Officer Charles T. Mulvihill died on September 11, 2001. He was responding to a call for service when he suffered apparent heart failure. Officer Mulvihill was a mentor and a friend to so many during his 10 years of service with the Troy Police Department. The character and integrity that he possessed, along with the dedication to his family and service to this community is a legacy that will always remain in the heart of this organization.

In addition to honoring fallen officers, as well as acknowledging the accomplishments of citizens and police personnel over the last year. This year also represents the 60th Anniversary of the City of Troy Police Department, and recognition of this significant anniversary will be part of Police Memorial Day and Police Awards Ceremonies this year.