PRESS RELEASES - MAY 2008

May 14, 2008

Arlington to Dedicate Heroes’ Park on May 17
New Park Pays Tribute to Fallen Police Officers, Fire Fighters

The dedication of Heroes’ Park is set for 10 a.m. Saturday, May 17. The park is a tribute to those who have fallen in the line of duty while serving the city.

The ceremony will be held at the park, which is located at 2100 W. Green Oaks Blvd., adjacent to the Arlington Police Department West Station. Media parking has been reserved at Woodland Park located on the east side of Green Oaks Blvd., across from Heroes Park.

Speakers will include Friends of Heroes’ Park Chairwoman Anne Weydeck, District 4 City Council Member Kathryn Wilemon, U.S. Congressman Joe Barton, and Arlington Mayor Robert Cluck. The program will also feature the Arlington Fire and Police Honor Guards who will read the names of the fallen officers. A wreath-laying ceremony will follow.

The park is more than an opportunity to recognize those we have lost through tragedy, said Fire Chief Robin Paulsgrove.

“It is a special place to inspire others to meet the challenge of our best leaders,” he said. “It is the constant reminder of the importance that we must place on improved training and equipment so that these tragedies need not reoccur.”

The following fallen officers will be honored on May 17: James E. Johnson, Champ C. Barnes Sr., Gary D. Harl, Ronald B. Snow, Ronnie M. McAndrew, Jerry J. Crocker, Terry Lynn Lewis, Craig Michael Hanking, Joseph Thomas Cushman, and Richard G. Hosford Jr.

"We are grateful to our citizens, corporate community and the Arlington Police Association who made this memorial a reality,” Police Chief Theron Bowman said.

“Every day, the men and women of the Arlington Police and Fire departments work diligently to serve our community. Now, our citizens can recall and honor that commitment in this serene setting," he said.

For more information about the May 17 dedication ceremony for Heroes’ Park, call Parks Marketing Manager Kelly Drawdy at 817-459-6931 or email kelly.drawdy@arlingtontx.gov.