What can we possibly do to show our appreciation to those who have given
so much to all of us?
Each day, the Peace Officers, Police and
Fire Fighters of our community exemplify courage and commitment as they
strive to assure a continuing safe environment for our City and its
citizens. Usually we are unaware of the time and effort expended by
these warriors in preventing crime or property damage. We sometimes
take for granted the dedication and valor inherent in these individuals
until an unfortunate event occurs, becomes newsworthy, and captures our
attention. Yet, each is willing to face danger on a daily basis in
order for us to enjoy a peaceful lifestyle. They risk their safety
for our safety.
While there is a national memorial and
several state and city memorials that have risen in years past to pay
tribute to the lives of police officers and fire fighters who have fallen
in the line of duty, Fort Worth has been unintentionally remiss in
fulfilling its mission of expressing, in perpetuity, its appreciation and
memory of our fallen heroes. The time has come to formally
acknowledge and maintain this long overdue recognition in the creation of
the Fort Worth Police and Fire Fighters Memorial.
A memorial is much more than an
impersonal monument. Behind each name on every memorial there is a
story...a story written in courage and lived through sacrifice...a tale of
heroism and service. Our site in Trinity Park will be a living
memorial and a constant reminder of our dependence upon and appreciation
of those who continue to sacrifice their own welfare in favor of ours.
The Fort Worth Police and Fire Fighters
Memorial Committee endeavors to build a memorial that will speak to our
community about our fallen heroes, those "who gave much more than
their part."
We owe them no less...they gave us so
much more.