Midnight Bagpiper honors fallen police officers in Sheboygan
The piper performed Amazing Grace during the solemn ceremony
SHEBOYGAN — A bagpiper was in Downtown Sheboygan overnight to pay tribute to fallen officers across Wisconsin.
Bruce McFarlane of the Greater Milwaukee Fire and Police Pipes and Drums performed Amazing Grace to a gathering of community members outside the Sheboygan County Law Enforcement Center. Sheboygan was one of 21 communities where bagpipers performed late Tuesday night. “It does mean a lot to the law enforcement community and the families as well,” said Sheriff Matt Spence following McFarlane’s rendition.
Through dense fog, squad cars illuminated the front of the Courthouse during the midnight ceremony. The Sheboygan County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard was also present as well as retired Sheriff Cory Roeseler. This was the second year a piper performed outside the Law Enforcement Center.
The annual tradition occurs during National Police Week. The week-long observance honors law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others. “We honor our brave officers who serve on the front lines to protect our families, safeguard our communities, and shoulder a burden of responsibility that most Americans cannot fathom,” said President Donald Trump. He proclaimed Thursday, May 15th as Peace Officers Memorial Day, continuing a 63-year tradition that started with President John F. Kennedy.
The Greater Milwaukee Fire and Police Pipes and Drums is celebrating their 25th anniversary. The group was founded in 2000 by active and retired members of fire and police services. In addition to performing at funerals of fallen first responders, they appear at Stars and Stripes Honor Flights and charity events.
To learn more, visit milwaukeebagpipes.com.
Follow WKTS News on Facebook and X for the latest local news.