Hundreds run to honor fallen officers
More than 600 runners participated in the first Run for Our Heroes race in downtown Saturday to honor the eight Raleigh police officers killed in the line of duty since 1922.
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A wreath was laid at a monument to fallen officers in Nash Square during a memorial service before the 5K race. Children under age 10 participated in the McGruff Crime Dog Kids’ 100-Yard Dash.
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Police Chief Harry Dolan said that the families officers leave behind can face tremendous hardship.
"Particularly in the short term, the financial issues and impacts are very significant on a family. What a lot of these organizations and associations and fundraisers are helping with is that immediate assistance," Dolan said.
"And we're very, very grateful for all our volunteers and all the funds that will be for the noblest of causes," he added.
According to the event Web site, four active and retired Raleigh officers got inspired to start the Run for Our Heroes after being in the annual Police Unity Tour in May 2008. They participated in the bike ride from Virginia Beach to the National Police Memorial in Washington, D.C., in honor of the fallen Raleigh police officers.
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