The community came together Saturday morning, May 11, to honor law enforcement officers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the line of duty.
Logan County Family Court Judge Natasha Kennedy shared remarks from some of her personal life experiences as the featured speaker at the 2024 Logan County Law Enforcement Memorial ceremony at Brown Park hosted by the Fraternal Order of Police Hi-Point Lodge 60.
She said her previous role as a defense attorney, and also as an assistant county prosecutor, magistrate and now judge has involved a myriad of interactions with law enforcement, on all sides of the criminal justice system.
Since 2017, she has gained a new and even deeper understanding of the profession as the wife of a law enforcement officer.
“Now, as the wife of a law enforcement officer, I have learned that they are not much different from you and me… with one exception: THEY have made the courageous commitment to protect and serve.”
Judge Kennedy related that police officers are indeed normal people, who have families, hobbies, and interests outside of their profession.
“They experience joy, sadness, and all the emotions that come with being human. While they have chosen a career in law enforcement, it is important to remember that they are not immune to the challenges and struggles that we all face. They have their own fears, doubts and vulnerabilities.
“What sets law enforcement officers apart is their commitment to serve and protect. They have chosen a profession that requires them to confront danger, maintain order, and uphold the law.”
The featured speaker informed the crowd that three law enforcement officers in Ohio gave their lives last year in the line of duty:
• Officer Timothy Unwin from the Springfield Township Police Department ended his watch on March 31, 2023. While responding to a radio call for assistance from fellow officers being attacked by an individual resisting arrest, Officer Unwin was killed in a motor vehicle crash. He was 31 years old and left behind his parents, sister and nephews.
• Deputy Marcus Zeigler from the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office ended his watch on May 26, 2023. Deputy Zeigler collapsed during a training run while in Great Oaks police academy. He was 36 years old and left behind his wife and five children.
• Deputy Joshua Hamilton from the Preble County Sheriff’s Office ended his watch on Dec. 18, 2023. Deputy Hamilton was on patrol and gave chase to a speeding vehicle where he was involved in a motor vehicle crash with a motorist traveling the opposite direction. He was 34 years old and left behind his 10-year-old daughter.
National Police Week pays special recognition to those law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others, Judge Kennedy noted. This year, the National Law Enforcement Memorial will hold ceremonies, including the Annual Candlelight Vigil Monday, May 13, to honor the fallen officers whose names have recently been added to the Memorial.
“Sadly, when the names are read aloud this year, these three Ohio officers will be added to that list,” Judge Kennedy said, while taking the time to share about these three heroes.
Officer Unwin was known for his passion for cars and working out in the gym. He was a Boy Scout and serving others was something he felt called to do.
Deputy Zeigler was known as a source of light and a jokester with an unfailing ability to make those around him laugh. He enjoyed traveling to Tennessee, cheering for the Bengals, and taking pictures.
Deputy Hamilton grew up on a dairy farm in Eldorado, Ohio, and enjoyed hunting, football and wrestling. He was a veteran and sole provider for his 10-year -old daughter.
Each day, these brave individuals put on their uniforms, not knowing what challenges they will face or the dangers that lie ahead, Judge Kennedy said.
“They leave their homes and families to ensure our safety, often putting their lives on the line to uphold the laws that govern our society.
“We must never forget that these courageous individuals are the backbone of our community. They are the ones who respond to our calls for help, who rush towards danger when others flee, and who work tirelessly to maintain peace and order. Their commitment to duty is unwavering, and their dedication is unmatched.
“But with great responsibility comes great sacrifice. We have lost far too many officers in the line of duty, and each loss is a heart-wrenching reminder of the dangers they face. These fallen heroes have left behind grieving families, shattered communities and a void that can never be filled.
“So today we remember them. We honor their memory and express our deepest gratitude for their service. We stand together as a community united in our support for the men and women who continue to protect us day in and day out.”
Logan County Family Court Judge Natasha Kennedy speaks during the 2024 Logan County Law Enforcement Memorial ceremony at Brown Park Saturday. (FOP HI-POINT LODGE 60 PHOTO)
The honor guard and rifle squad make their way through downtown Bellefontaine Saturday morning under an aerial flag to Brown Park for the Logan County Law Enforcement Memorial ceremony hosted by the Fraternal Order of Police Hi-Point Lodge 60. (EXAMINER PHOTO)