Golden State Today

Governor Gavin Newsom, alongside local, state, and law enforcement leaders, paid tribute to fallen California peace officers at the annual California Peace Officers’ Memorial Ceremony in Sacramento. The ceremony, held on Monday, included various solemn rituals to commemorate the officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

During the event, Governor Newsom reflected on the bravery and selflessness of the fallen officers, stating, “These officers served with resilience and resolve, prioritizing the needs of others above their own. They exemplified courage in its purest form. We honor them by remembering their names and by drawing strength in our own lives from how they lived.”

The memorial ceremony featured poignant moments such as a procession for law enforcement vehicles, a Walk of Honor for department representatives, and an Enrollment Ceremony where the names of newly enrolled officers were formally added to the Memorial Monument. Among those honored were officers who sacrificed their lives in the distant past and in recent years, including Detective Donald A. Mason, Officer Philip T. Sudario, Sergeant Patricia Elena Guillen, Sergeant Anthony Ray White, Deputy Darnell Andrew Calhoun, Officer Gonzalo Carrasco Jr., Deputy Ryan M. Clinkunbroomer, and Officer Tuan Q. Le.

The solemn event incorporated various law enforcement traditions, such as a riderless horse presentation, the folding of the United States flag, the releasing of doves, and culminated with a 21-gun salute and the haunting melody of Taps. The ceremony served as a poignant reminder of the risks and sacrifices made by peace officers in the line of duty.

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