MANCHESTER, N.J. — Law enforcement officers from across Ocean County gathered Friday to mark the 34th Annual Ocean County Law Enforcement Memorial Day Observance, honoring those who lost their lives in the line of duty.
The ceremony, held on May 16, brought together officers, family members, and local officials to pay tribute at the Ocean County Honor Roll memorial. The Manchester Township Police Department was among those in attendance.
This year’s remembrance specifically honored Patrolman Robert Tobias, whose End of Watch was May 17, 1975, and Corporal Scott Thompson, who died in the line of duty on April 10, 2015. Roses were laid at the memorial in their memory by family members and fellow officers.
Ocean County Commissioner Virginia E. Haines delivered the keynote address. Performances were provided by the OCVTS Performing Arts Academy and Point Pleasant Borough High School students, alongside ceremonial honors by multiple Honor Guard units.
“Today, we honored and remembered Ptl. Robert Tobias, End of Watch May 17, 1975, and Cpl. Scott Thompson, End of Watch April 10, 2015,” the department said in a public statement.
Annual memorial draws community and regional law enforcement support
Officials expressed gratitude to the performers, speakers, and participating agencies for helping create what the department described as a “memorable and moving event.”
The ceremony is held annually to commemorate the sacrifices of Ocean County officers who died while serving their communities. It serves as a moment of reflection for both law enforcement and residents.
The memorial observance continues to be a significant event for families of fallen officers and police departments throughout the region, underscoring the lasting impact of service and sacrifice.
This year marked the 34th consecutive year the ceremony has been held.