- Jun 22, 2024
Wall of Honour Dedication Ceremonies
The names of three OPP Officers who died in the line of duty were formally added to two Wall of Honour monuments, one at OPP Headquarters in Orillia, and the second at the OPP Association head Office in Barrie on Tuesday, June 18, 2024. The private ceremonies were attended by the families of the fallen officers – Provincial Constable Greg Pierzchala, Detective Constable Steven Tourangeau and Sergeant Eric Mueller.
The Walls of Honour, as well as the Wall of Honour for the OPP at the Ontario Police College are maintained by the OPP Association. There are now 113 names of police officers who have died in the line of duty serving the province of Ontario. (note: some of the names served in Police Services that have been amalgamated with the OPP since their dates of death).
The ceremonies included the Mounting of Vigil Guard and Processional March by P.C. Timothy Dunnah & Special Constable Rob Richards of the OPP Ceremonial Unit, and Piper Chris Gilbertson of the Commissioner’s Own Piper & Drums .
The event Master of Ceremonies was OPPA Director Lynn Neale.
A Smudging Ceremony led by OPP Sergeants Stan Wesley and Mark Lafrance of the Indigenous Policing Bureau was offered to start the ceremonies.
“Hallelujah” was sung by Retired S/Sgt Valerie A. Burns accompanied on guitar by David Chun. Solicitor General Michael Kerzner attended and delivered remarks, followed by OPP Commissioner Thomas Carrique and OPPA Provincial President John Cerasuolo. The Last Post was performed by Robin Watson and the Lament – Reveille was performed by Piper Gilbertson.
The event finished with a rendition of “Song Bird” performed by Retired S/Sgt Burns & David Chun.
The OPP Association thanks everyone who contributed to these ceremonies to honour our fallen officers and their families.
Our Members who have died in the line of duty will always be remembered as our Heroes in Life.