A Letter To Editor From The Berkeley Township Police Department

A Letter to the Editor from the Berkeley Township Police Department

On behalf of Berkeley Township Police Chief Karin DiMichele, the department would like to thank everyone who was there for us as we mourned the death of our officer, Sergeant Alison Wray.

Thank you for the outpouring of support from our local businesses who donated and fundraised for the family of Sgt. Wray. The local shop owners who gave their time and business for her. This was amazing.

Thank you to the local fire departments and first aid squads who arrived in droves to honor our fallen officer, who flew the colors of our nation high above, in the ultimate show of respect for her.

Thank you to our brothers and sisters in blue who were by our side , “Watching our 6” by covering policing in Berkeley Township so our department, in its entirety, could pay their last respects to Sergeant Alison Wray.

To the officers, who stood shoulder to shoulder with us, who shared in our pain and sadness, together with us. To the officers who stood silently and unwavering in the freezing cold and blustery wind and saluted one of their own.

We remind ourselves that they did this not because the knew Sgt. Wray, but they did it because they “are” her. Thats what the police profession is, noble and honorable.

Everyone who puts on a uniform or wears a shield knows very well how life can change in a matter of seconds. This is the reality of our line of work.

These past couple of days have been a testament to our profession and how we stick together in the tough times. Sergeant Wray would have been proud seeing this all come together for her.

To the benevolence of all the police unions nationwide who opened their hearts and showed their generosity. To the officers of Berkeley PBA 237 who showed us all what brotherhood is really about.

To the nameless and faceless people who planned, orchestrated and assisted in the funeral services. Who did what was needed to be done so that Sergeant Wray could have a proper sendoff, we salute you.

To the the residents of Berkeley Township and its civilian leadership, The response was overwhelming. The letters, e-mails and phone calls to offer condolences for Sergeant Wray was breathtaking. The support from our elected officials was without question and was absolute. We thank you all .

Finally, to the family of Sergeant Alison Wray. Thank you for allowing us the opportunity to honor her. As sad as it is grieving together in this tragedy, know that we will continue to be there for Alison and all of her family as she is forever a member of our family and is a hero to us all.

Rest in Peace Berkeley Township Police Sergeant Alison Wray #5104

Photos: Courtesy of Berkeley Township Police Department