Local relay honors fallen police officers and firefighters

A moment of silence followed the names read of fallen officers and firefighters. Honoring lives lost while in the line of duty, serving Santa Cruz County.

“These are people that give their lives for the community to protect the community,” said Never Forget Relay Organizer Henry Montes. “It’s important to remember them.”

After the deep reflection, more than 150 police officers, firefighters and supporting agencies took on the third annual Never Forget Relay. They ran for their deceased brothers and sisters.

“I hope that our little agency can own it and show these guys what’s up,” said Capitola Police Officer Sara Ryan.

The teams ran a mile and a half out and back, through Nisene Marks State Park trails and paths.

Funds raised from the event will go to the Fallen Officer Foundation. It’s a nonprofit that helps police officers, firefighters and their families in the event tragedy strikes.

“One of our fire captains passed away about ten years ago,” said Schwartz. “The Fallen Officer Foundation was really key in helping our department, his family out.”

Some said the relay is also a good way to let off some steam because being a part of the public safety community is not always heroic. Firefighters often work in dangerous conditions and experience lots of stress.

“Dealing with death, and dying, and people having the worst day, at a moment’s notice,” said Schwartz.

The last decade has been rough for law enforcement around the country. Budget cuts, public outcry over officer involved shootings, along with being the target of violence has been challenging.

“We’re human beings, we are people too,” said Montes. “We’re just like anybody else.”

But they say at the end of the day, it’s worth it.

“It’s a great profession if you can stay healthy in your body, in your mind,” said Ryan.

Event coordinators hope to raise at least $5,000. Winners of the relay went home with medals and of course bragging rights.