The legacies of police officers whose lives ended in the line of duty, through illness or other circumstances were remembered in Dubbo as part of the 30th annual National Police Remembrance Day on Friday.
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Families, loved ones, community members and serving police officers gathered at the Holy Trinity Anglican Church for a moving service to honour beloved members of the police family.
Orana Mid-Western Police District Commander Superintendent Peter McKenna said the "solemn day" was an opportunity to honour the devotion of deceased police officers.
"It's our duty to remember them," he said.
The names of police officers who have died in the past 12 months, including the late Detective Senior Constable Peter Ensor from Dubbo, were read out during the service. A candle was also lit in honour of every officer who died.
Assistant western region NSW Police Commissioner Geoff McKechnie said the day was a chance to remember "the underlying principle of looking after your mates and each other".
He said serving officers stood in solidarity with families of deceased officers "to reassure them they're not alone [and that] the police family is here for them and to reach out if there's anything they need".
"I acknowledge all of our serving and retired officers for their commitment to their communities and to their colleagues," Assistant Commissioner McKechnie said. "We're proud of them every day but it's on special occasions when we get a chance to show that pride in our organisation and its people."
NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller said the day was a time for everyone to come together.
"We stand side by side in support of all those who have lost a loved one, a friend, or a team mate and honour their integrity, loyalty and commitment to duty," he said.
