National Peace Officer Memorial Day

May 15, 2024
Elise Schaffer, PIO, (608) 284-6142
Sheriff's Office

The Dane County Sheriff’s Office and Peace Officers throughout the country recognize today as National Peace Officer Memorial Day. In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation to designate the day, which honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.

This week, tens of thousands will gather in our Nation’s capital to remember the more than 23,000 men and women whose names are etched on the national memorial. During a candlelight vigil on Monday, 282 names were added to the memorial. As in past years, the Dane County Sheriff’s Office participates by sending representatives from our Honor Guard and Motor Unit to escort the family members of the fallen.

Historically, Dane County has lost four deputies in the line of duty. Most recently, in 2020, Deputy Rick Treadwell died from complications of COVID-19, which he contracted while on duty. Others include Deputy Harlend Orsburne (1979), who died after his squad was rammed by a stolen vehicle. Deputy Bernhardt Brattlie (1936) died in a motorcycle crash, and Earl Van Deusen (1930) was shot while responding to a domestic dispute.

“We will continue to honor and remember these peace officers for making the ultimate sacrifice,” said Sheriff Kalvin Barrett. “Their service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.”