AUSTIN, Texas — Emotions ran high Sunday as 37 Texas officers who died of the line of duty were honored for their service.
It was part of the Texas Peace Officers' Memorial Ceremony at the Texas State Capitol.
The ceremony had a big turnout. Officers' loved ones, Gov. Greg Abbott and law enforcement agencies all paid their respects.
Senior Austin Police Officer Jorge Pastore was among the 37 honored.
The ceremony began with the Austin Police Pipe and Drum Corp and a law enforcement procession to the memorial monument at the capitol.
Then a wreath was carried by Austin Police Department (APD) officers who served with Pastore on APD’s Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team.
Each of the 37 officers' loved ones put a red rose in the wreath in remembrance.
“Those we honor faced those dangerous fought for justice and kept Texas safe. We remain forever grateful for their valor,” Abbott said.
Loved ones of the fallen officers were also presented with medals and resolutions by the governor.
Two other officers from Central Texas were also honored: Caldwell County Sgt. Jason Donaldson and Hays County Deputy Sheriff Dustin Speckels.
Now roses represent each of those 37 fallen officers.