24-hour vigil held for law enforcement

In observance of Law Enforcement Memorial Day, a 24-hour vigil was held on the steps of the Bandera County Courthouse from starting at 6 a.m. on May 15 and concluding 6 a.m. on May 16.

Organized by the Bandera American Legion Post 157, the volunteer vigil event was a way for the citizens of Bandera County to begin to recognize National Police Week and National Peace Officer Memorial Day according to spokesperson, Christopher Dion.

Volunteers including members of the American Legion Post 157, the American Legion Riders Post 157, the Bandera Marshal’s office, the City of Bandera, White Rock Christian Fellowship Church, Combat Veteran’s Motorcycle Association and First Baptist Church of Bandera stood watch over a memorial table in one-hour shifts.

The memorial table is represented by a round table, which signifies the endless service of law enforcement workers, covered with a white tablecloth – emblematic of the purity of their service, and a red rose, which conveys our love for them.

Lastly, there was a bible open to Psalm 82:3-4 and the call of the warrior, “Give justice to the poor and the orphan; uphold the rights of the oppressed and the destitute. Rescue the poor and the helpless; deliver them from the grasp of evil people.”

A donation box was also on site. All donations will be given to the 100 Club, which provides financial support for the dependents of law enforcement officers and firefighters who are killed or seriously injured in the line of duty.

The Bandera American Legion Post 157 plans to make this an annual event that honors our law enforcement officers, while also recognizing both Police Week and Peace Officers Memorial Day.