JACKSON TOWNSHIP, N.J. – Members of the Jackson Township Police Department joined law enforcement agencies across Ocean County on Friday to honor fallen officers during the 34th Annual Ocean County Law Enforcement Memorial Day Observance.
The event, held on May 16, recognized officers who died in the line of duty and included a special tribute to Jackson Police Officer Robert Ventura, badge #213, whose End of Watch was March 18, 2001. Officers and members of the Ventura family participated in a rose-laying ceremony at the Ocean County Honor Roll memorial.
“Today, we honored and remembered Police Officer Robert Ventura #213 End of Watch March 18th, 2001,” the department stated. “Members of the Ventura family along with officers from multiple agencies came together to pay their respects.”
The ceremony featured remarks from guest speakers, including Ocean County Commissioner Virginia E. Haines, who delivered the keynote address. Performances were provided by students from the Ocean County Vocational Technical School Performing Arts Academy and Point Pleasant Borough High School.
Community and officers unite to remember the fallen
Honor Guard units from across the region participated in the memorial proceedings, which are held annually to recognize the sacrifices made by law enforcement personnel.
Jackson Police expressed appreciation for the County and those who contributed to the memorial event, calling it a memorable and moving observance.