Fallen officers honored at Police Week memorial

Five Jasper County law enforcement officers have given their lives in the line of duty. A memorial ceremony to honor them and recognize those who are currently serving was held Thursday evening at the Jasper County Courthouse.

“Our law enforcement officers come to work every day knowing that today could be their last. This is why it is vitally important that we not only honor those who come before us, but those who are currently serving at an exemplary level today,” Newton Police Chief Rob Burdess said. “We honor the bravery and sacrifice of our current officers as the traverse through this honorable profession with a high level of professionalism and integrity despite the perils of the job.”

Three officers from the Newton Police Department died while serving the community. To honor them, Burdess announced three area bridges will be named for them on Friday.

Officer Bobby Barrickman was killed on Sept. 30, 1979 in a traffic accident while on duty. Six years later on Sept. 13, 1985, Officer Dan McPherren was killed when he responded to a robbery at a grocery store. The most recent loss for the department, Lt. Patrick Richardson suffered a fatal heart attack on Sept. 1, 2013 when he was exercising for the department’s agility test.

Also giving his life to service, Prairie City Officer Donald “Rusty” Hewitt was honored at the ceremony. Hewitt was killed in an automobile accident during a high-speed pursuit on Dec. 3, 1977. A bridge in Prairie City was also named in his honor earlier this year.

From the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office, Reserve Captain Howard Holdefer served until his death on Oct. 30, 1973. Holdefer suffered a fatal heart attack while assisting his fellow deputies in the arrest of three individuals.

“The events that bring us here together today all happened in the past,” Jasper County Sheriff John Halferty said. “In order to continue honoring those who have sacrificed all, we must remain vigilant in the present and prepare for the future.”

Halferty said the number of officers assaulted by firearms and knives is the highest in a decade. Last year alone, 57,180 officers were assaulted, 2,377 officers were assaulted with firearms and 16,535 officers suffered injury as a result, Halferty said.

“Those are casualties folks,” Halferty said. “Many more struggle with critical events or a combination of critical events over several years that culminates into PTSD and other challenges. Many that survive are forever changed.”

Halferty praised local communities for their support of law enforcement officers. By working together, he said, positive relationships, coalitions and groups have been built and programs and plans are being developed to solve local issues.

To recognize the work done by law enforcement officers throughout the county, a peer-nominated Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award was presented by Newton Daily News Editor Mike Mendenhall. Jasper County Jail Chief Jailer Wendy Hecox was selected for the honor after being nominated by colleague Rod Eilander. Mendenhall read an excerpt from the nomination letter for Hecox:

“The dedication Wendy shows for her job is phenomenal. ... Often times we celebrate and award law enforcement officers who serve on the front line. Each and every law enforcement officer deserves an award for dealing with criminals, going  above and beyond the call of duty while the negative stigma of law enforcement in the public these days is larger than ever. Often, the behind the scenes staff, whether jail, administrator staff or other supports are not property recognized. It is my hope to put the spotlight on chief jailer Wendy Hecox and award her efforts, professionalism and dedication to this community.”

Newton Mayor Mike Hansen proclaimed the week of May 13 through 19 Police Week and designated May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day. To close the ceremony, the Rev. Don Hayes of Newton First Assembly of God Church and Chaplin for the Newton Police Department spoke in memoriam of those who were lost and of the dedicated work officers deliver to the communities every day.

As the ceremony came to end, Steve Ashing performed “Amazing Grace” on the bagpipes and “Taps” was played by Jim Beerends on the trumpet.

“We thank you for your protection,” Hayes said. “It is true, as long as there are heroes like you, there is hope.”

Contact Jamee A. Pierson at 641-792-3121 ext. 6534 or jpierson@newtondailynews.com