FREDERICKSBURG FREE LANCE-STAR

Rappahannock Area Lodge 15 recently held its Percy C. Poates Jr. Annual Awards and Memorial Ceremony. The organization’s 68th annual memorial and awards service remembered those members of the law enforcement community who were killed in the line of duty, as well as those members lost over the past year. The lodge also recognized those federal, state and local law enforcement officers who demonstrated unequaled professionalism and exhibited courtesy, duty and honor. In accordance with the Fraternal Order of Police mission statement , the lodge aims to cultivate a spirit of fraternalism and mutual helpfulness among its members and the people it serves.

The service coincided with National Police Week. In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation which designated May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which that date falls as Police Week. FOP Lodge 15’s memorial and awards service began in 1953 as a way to honor those officers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty from the area as well taking a moment to honor the fraternal bonds of those members of Lodge 15 who have passed away over the years.

Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger, 7th District, was the keynote speaker. Delegate Mark Cole, 88th District, also attended the service.

Rep. Spanberger provided remarks commending the men and women of law enforcement and their tremendous sacrifices. She reflected on her time as a federal law enforcement officer with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and as a case officer with the Central Intelligence Agency. She noted her support for legislation to ensure law enforcement have the tools necessary to succeed.

David Theisen, president of Fraternal Order of Police Rappahannock Area Lodge 15, read the names of those members of the lodge who were killed in the line of duty. Chief Brian Layton of the Fredericksburg City Police read the names of those Fredericksburg City Police Officers who were killed in the line of duty.

Detective Stephan Lamar was named Detective of the Year for his work in the local community resolving several high-profile felony cases. In one case he was instrumental in identifying and arresting a murder suspect from Washington state.

Detective Nicholas Riding of the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office was recognized of his work in resolving several high-profile felony burglary and narcotics investigations in 2021.

Lynn Hamilton was named Member of the Year for her unwavering support to the Fraternal Order of Police and the Rappahannock Area Lodge 15.

Deputy Jorden Wichowski was recognized for his tenacious investigative skills and his compassion for those less fortunate. He serves as a role model as well as a mentor to many members of the community.