GLASGOW, Ky. — Community members gathered Friday morning at the Glasgow Police Department for a solemn ceremony honoring fallen law enforcement officers ahead of National Police Week.

The event featured several speakers, including Glasgow Police Chief Guy Howie, River Lake Church Pastor Nic Smith, Kylie Foushee from Congressman Brett Guthrie’s office and other local leaders.

“Every time an officer responds to a call, they hope it’s routine,” Foushee said. “They hope everyone goes home safely at the end of the shift, but they never truly know what waits for them on the other side of that radio call.”

Foushee also spoke in support of the families of fallen officers. Relatives of fallen officers, including Deputy Rusty Anderson, who died while serving with the Barren County Sheriff’s Office in 2018, were present in the crowd.

“I think that distinction matters now more than ever. Safe communities are the foundation of strong families, economic opportunity and freedom itself,” Foushee said. “Respect for the rule of law is what allows communities and our country to thrive.”

During the ceremony, Glasgow Mayor Henry Royse and Barren County Judge/Executive Jamie Byrd signed a joint proclamation recognizing Peace Officers Memorial Week, which was established in 1962.

“On Peace Officer Memorial Day, we honor those who wear the badge,” Royse said. “We thank them for their selfless service and remember the brave men and women who lost their lives in the line of duty.”

Royse also reflected on the broader role officers serve within their communities.

“More than that, they are leaders in our communities, serving as mentors, coaches, friends and neighbors, working tirelessly each day to ensure that the people they serve have the opportunities that should be afforded to all Americans,” he said.

Howie encouraged attendees to visit the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. After pausing briefly, he reflected on the reality that the memorial continues to grow.

“It is truly a sight to see,” Howie said. “Something special about our memorial — we’re going to be adding names every year.”

Deputy James Duff and Sheriff Kent Keen also addressed the crowd, reflecting on the weight and sacrifice tied to a career in law enforcement.

“It’s about respect, sacrifice. It’s about the kind of men and women who choose a life most people wouldn’t last a day in,” Duff said. “Because the badge is not a job. It’s not a title. It’s a commitment.”

Duff also praised Keen, who has announced he will not seek reelection this year.

“He’s the kind of man you want in front of you, and he’s the kind of man you’re proud to stand behind,” Duff said. “Today, as we honor those who have given everything, we also recognize a man who has spent his lifetime giving to this badge, to this job and this community without ever asking for recognition in return.”

The ceremony also honored local officers who died in the line of duty while serving with the Glasgow Police Department and Barren County Sheriff’s Office:

• Policeman Robert J. Thurman — End of Watch: Sept. 18, 1914
• Town Marshal Harry Collins — End of Watch: July 18, 1926
• Deputy Wayne Bull Branham — End of Watch: Jan. 26, 2011
• Deputy Ernest Franklin — End of Watch: April 2, 2014
• Deputy Rusty Anderson — End of Watch: March 18, 2018