TOP PHOTO: Proposed design for the Line of Duty Death Memorial Statue that will honor law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to others. Courtesy photo
By David Karas, Correspondent
As the quarter-century anniversary of the Diocese of Trenton Blue Mass approaches in 2027, efforts are underway to establish a Line of Duty Death Memorial Statue that will honor law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to others.
The statue is planned for the grounds of St. Robert Bellarmine Co-Cathedral, Freehold, where Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., conducted a groundbreaking ceremony following this year’s Blue Mass April 7. The official unveiling of the memorial is expected to occur in conjunction with the 2027 Blue Mass, which marks the 25th anniversary of the annual diocesan Mass honoring law enforcement officers.
“I am very excited about this memorial to all those men and women who have died in the line of duty,” said Msgr. Sam Sirianni, rector of the Co-Cathedral and member of the Blue Mass Committee. “Excluding the two years for the pandemic, the Diocese of Trenton has held the Blue Mass to pray for and give thanks for the many men and women in all branches of law enforcement who protect our communities. This memorial reminds us that this duty does come with a cost, a high cost that is paid in the lives of our sons and daughters.”
The statute, which will be erected in a grassy area just to the side of the Co-Cathedral’s main entrance, is projected to stand five feet tall above a brick pedestal. It will be cast in bronze depicting St. Michael the Archangel kneeling with a sword and shield. The monument will also bear an inscription including the phrase, “In memory of all of the officers who lost their lives in the line of duty.”
“The Blue Mass is a powerful reminder of faith, unity and sacrifice,” said Monmouth County Sheriff Shaun Golden, who serves as chairman of the Blue Mass Committee. “It provides us with the opportunity to honor and celebrate the lives of all law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty and to support the loved ones they left behind.
“As we look toward the 25th anniversary and the creation of a permanent memorial, it is especially meaningful to know that future generations will have a place to remember these heroes. The tribute will stand as a symbol of protection, courage and unwavering service; values that officers carry with them every day.”
The diocesan Blue Mass Committee includes active and retired law enforcement personnel from municipal, county, state and federal agencies, as well as clergy, diocesan staff and representatives from survivor groups. In preparation for this lasting tribute to fallen officers, the committee has launched a number of fundraising initiatives to make this project possible.
Individuals and agencies interested in making a donation are encouraged to visit https://tinyurl.com/SRBstatue. There are various levels of sponsorships available, beginning as low as $25, and sponsors will be recognized during the unveiling and dedication in 2027.
Additionally, supporters are welcomed to support the construction of the memorial through the purchase of 4”x8” bricks, which can be engraved with a name or message of the supporter’s choosing. For more information and to purchase a brick, visit https://tinyurl.com/SRBbricks. Bricks are now being sold for $130 each.
“I hope that when people see this memorial, they will remember to pray for those who gave their lives in protecting the innocent,” said Msgr. Sirianni, “and to the families and friends that still mourn their loss.”
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