WAYNE COUNTY, NC — Communities across the nation are observing National Police Week, a time dedicated to honoring the courage, sacrifice, and service of law enforcement officers who protect their communities every day.
Originally established by President John F. Kennedy in 1962, National Police Week includes Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15 and serves as a time to remember officers who lost their lives in the line of duty while also recognizing those who continue to serve with dedication and courage.
The Goldsboro Police Department joined agencies nationwide in paying tribute to fallen officers and honoring current law enforcement personnel during this year’s observance.
The department specifically recognized five Goldsboro officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the community:
- Police Officer Herbert C. Wiegand — End of Watch: March 9, 1940
- Lieutenant C. Frank Faircloth — End of Watch: September 19, 1960
- Police Officer Mahlon M. Parks — End of Watch: September 19, 1960
- Police Officer Walter J. Rouse — End of Watch: February 27, 1968
- Major Jay Russell Memmelaar Jr. — End of Watch: February 16, 2017
Officials said the sacrifices of these officers continue to inspire those who wear the badge today.
The Wayne County Sheriff’s Office also honored members of the agency who died in the line of duty, including:
- Sheriff John Coor-Pender — End of Watch: January 1, 1816
- Captain Jerry Best — End of Watch: November 13, 2002
- Sergeant Matthew Fishman — End of Watch: August 2, 2022
“Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God,” officials shared in remembrance of the fallen.
As part of the week’s observances, Wayne Community College and local first responder agencies will host a special ceremony titled “Honoring Our Fallen Heroes.”
The event will commemorate Wayne County first responders — including law enforcement officers, firefighters, and EMS personnel — who lost their lives in the line of duty.
The ceremony is scheduled for Monday, May 18, at 6 p.m. in Moffatt Auditorium inside the Wayne Learning Center on the Wayne Community College campus. The event is free and open to the public.
College officials said accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities by contacting the Accessibility Counselor at 919-739-6729.433
