MILWAUKEE -- Over the last two years we’ve lost multiple members of law enforcement in the Milwaukee area.
Saturday afternoon they were honored for their service at a special ceremony at Irish Fest.
The sounds of pipes and drums filled the air to recognize those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Milwaukee Police Chief Alfonso Morales remembered the four officers killed in the city the past two years, along with six other fallen members of law enforcement from as far as Chicago.
“I’d rather be sharing a single pot-still or a pint with those that we have lost,” Morales said. “We come together with family, friends and loved ones to support one another and find the strength to continue our mission.”
One by one each family was presented with a plaque as fest-goers gazed at the Miller Lite stage to pay their respects.
It was a moment of affirmation for those who lost their brothers in blue, including Milwaukee Police Officer Gerald Kulwich, who worked with fallen Officer Matthew Rittner on the Tactical Enforcement Unit.
“It’s very uplifting for everybody. It shows that there is a community that supports us. It’s actually overwhelming at times to see how much support there actually is out there,” Kulwich said.
Captain Heather Wurth of District 4, has experienced the deaths of two of her officers, Charles Irvine Jr. and Kou Her.
“The thanks, the support, that’s what it means. It’s just that visible display and that appreciation,” Wurth said.
With that, they can go on fighting the good fight, by protecting and serving their community.
“They give us motivation to continue working to continue striving to be better,” Kulwich said.
The Milwaukee Police Department was also out at the festival selling t-shirts to benefit the families of the fallen.
