The Ohio State Police Division honored Officer Michael Blankenship with its annual Peace Officers Memorial Ceremony on Friday, May 19 at Blankenship Hall. Blankenship was killed in the line of duty as an OSUPD officer in 1997. The ceremony is held every year during National Police Week to pay tribute to Blankenship and all law enforcement officers who make the ultimate sacrifice.
“This is important to all officers to continue year after year because it’s a constant reminder of what could happen and the sacrifices you are being asked to make. It’s just a general reminder to be safe and to look ahead and watch your six,” OSUPD detective Cassandra Shaffer said.
The ceremony included the trumpet playing of “Taps,” bagpipes and a wreath laying.