Police Commissioner Col Blanch has joined the family of Constable Anthony Woods in Canberra today as part of ceremonies across Australia to mark National Police Remembrance Day.
Constable Woods became the 88th WA Police officer to lose his life in the line of duty, succumbing to critical injuries sustained in an incident in June.
Commissioner Blanch paid tribute to the 28-year-old constable, whose death has been deeply felt by his colleagues and the broader community.
“Constable Woods was simply trying to arrest another young man, in an effort to keep the community safe,” he said.
“It was the sort of interaction that any of our officers may encounter any given day or night of the year, reminding us of the ever-present dangers facing police officers. Today, we honour all those officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice to protect and serve the community.”
Constable Wood’s name has been added to Memorial Wall at the WA Police Academy in Joondalup, facing the Flame of Remembrance.
Deputy Commissioner Allan Adams will join Police Minister Paul Papalia there today to lead speeches and a wreath-laying ceremony.
Blue and white chequered ribbons are worn on Police Remembrance Day to honour fallen police officers.
