CDCR honors fallen at Peace Officers Memorial

May 20, 2024

CMF Correctional Officer Courtney Herrera, back row center, stands guard over the Peace Officers Wall of Honor.

Staff from three CDCR institutions took part in Solano County’s 35th annual Peace Officers Memorial Service on May 15.

Three CDCR officials at the Solano peace officers memorial. — CSP-Solano acting Chief Deputy Warden (CDW) Andre Gonzalez, CMF CDW Williams and CSP-Solano acting Warden Jason Schultz pay tribute to fallen officers.

Attending the ceremony were the California Medical Facility (CMF), California State Prison-Solano and San Quentin Rehabilitation Center who participated in the ceremony held at the Solano County Sheriff’s Office.

The annual service honors the fallen officers who lost their lives or became disabled while performing their duties and serving the residents of Solano County.

CMF’s Chief Deputy Warden Sircoya Williams, one of the invited guest speakers, gave a warm heartfelt speech to those in attendance.

“When a peace officer is killed, it’s not an agency that loses an officer, it’s an entire nation. The men and women in our profession potentially face danger every time they put on their uniform. As we gather to recognize our heroes, I hope you feel embraced by those around you. May you feel comfort and peace. And although your loved ones sacrificed their lives, they did not die in vain. We will continue to keep their name alive,” said Williams.

Remembering Officer Albert Patch

CMF Correctional Officer Courtney Herrera stood guard behind the Peace Officers Wall of Honor paying special tribute to fallen Correctional Officer Albert “Al” Patch.

Albert Patch, fallen officer, was killed at CMF in 1980. — Albert Patch

On Aug. 17, 1980, while trying to stop a fight involving three incarcerated people, Officer Patch was killed. The names of 20 Solano County law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty, along with their End of Watch dates, were read during the service.

The ceremony included Honor Guard formations, flag ceremony, singing the national anthem, a releasing of doves followed by a moment of silence. There was also a seven-volley salute, playing of taps, a California Highway Patrol helicopter fly-over, and a closing prayer.

“The ceremony was beautiful. Our local institutions were honored to participate,” according to a statement issued by participating CDCR institutions.

Photos and story by Lt. Priscilla Gonzalez, public information officer, California Medical Facility
Additional photos by Toni Perreira, Executive Assistant, CSP-Solano