A landmark in downtown Reno is looking a little different, in recognition of National Law Enforcement Memorial Month. To remember our fallen, the Reno Arch is shining blue.Â
The color symbolizes peace and for the past six years, the arch has turned blue to honor those who been killed in the line of duty.Â
The bag pipes played as the community paid their respects to law enforcement for their sacrifices.Â
Carolyn Sullivan stood in silence, showing support for husband, George Sullivan, a UNR police sergeant murdered in 1998.Â
"He made a difference while he was alive, but I think he big difference in giving his life for our community," said Sullivan.Â
Sullivan is one of more than 100 officers in Nevada killed in the line of duty. Now Carolyn's son carries on the badge with the Sparks Police Department.Â
"It was always my son's dream to become a police officer and follow in his dad's footsteps. Not so easy for a mom," said Sullivan. "It's a part of who he is. His dad passed that on to him. I couldn't be prouder of both of them."
With the click of a switch, the Reno Arch turned blue to honor the men and women who died protecting our community.
"I've watched and witnessed a number of deputies, troopers, and police officers get killed in the line of duty," said Sheriff Chuck Allen, with the Washoe County Sheriff's Office.Â
Organizers hope the lights will not just bring recognition to the officers who lost their lives, but also for those still serving.
Allen added, "When you drive under the arch for the month of May, think about those who serve your community."
Officer Tim Broadway, with the Reno Police Department said, "Whether it's a green uniform, a blue uniform, whatever their color uniform is, they're out there ready to protect the community, to keep us all safe."
The community will also host several other ceremonies to honor fallen officers all across the country and right here in Nevada.
Other local events include the Nevada Law Enforcement Officer Memorial ceremony, which will be held at 12:00 p.m. on May 5 at the Nevada State Capitol in Carson City. The ceremony will honor the 127Â Nevada peace officers killed in the line of duty since 1861.
On May 6, the James D. Hoff Officer Memorial ceremony will be held 10:00 a.m. at Idlewild Park in Reno. The Hoff Memorial was the first state memorial recognizing fallen officers in Nevada.
The arch will stay blue until Wednesday, June 1.Â
