Virginia State Police memorial service honors fallen heroes

RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) – The Virginia State Police honored its fallen heroes at an exceptional memorial service on Wednesday.

A tolling of the bell, portraits and tributes marked the anniversaries of 13 state troopers who died in the line of duty.

67 state troopers who made the ultimate sacrifice were remembered as each name was called out.

Governor Glenn Youngkin gave the keynote address and used Bible scripture to describe the selflessness of Virginia’s service men and women.

“Today, we honor them. Today, we stand with their families,” Youngkin said. “These were lives that were lived with great purpose and character.”

Families of those killed stood as their loved ones’ names were called, including an entire row of family for fallen trooper Nathan-Michael W. Smith.

Trooper Smith was 27 years old when he was killed in a car accident while on duty ten years ago. His widow, Jennifer, and two children were in attendance for the memorial service.

“They were actually one and five when the incident happened, and so, you know, we do live through these memories and these ceremonies because their memories are starting to fade as they’re getting older,” Jennifer Smith said.

“He was the brightest guy I knew. He was adventurous. He taught me music, which I love to this day,” Nathan-Michael William Smith II, 15, said, remembering his father. “As a kid, you know, it’s hard losing a dad, but at the end of the day, you try to push through.”

“I’m just grateful that they get to experience this. They get to, you know, brag on their dad and make their heart smile because they do miss those moments where other children get to spend time with their dads and do different events, so this is like their moment to get to shine on their dad,” Jennifer added.

The Powhatan High School “One Voice” Concert Choir sang the national anthem.

And the Virginia State Police Honor Guard presented a memorial wreath.

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