Law officers from across the state honored a WakeMed police officer on Sunday. Roger Smith was an officer at the WakeMed Garner Healthplex when he was shot and killed on duty.
Dozens of people gathered outside the Garner Performing Arts Center for the event.
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It was organized by Operation Fly Our Flag, a North Carolina organization full of active and retired military, Veterans, Law Enforcement Officers, Firefighters, EMTs/Paramedics, and Dispatchers.
In addition to Sunday’s ride, Operation Fly Our Flag also sold stickers to raise money for the Smith family.
“It gives us a bit of closure,” said Officer Shea Cook, Captain of WakeMed police. “We had to shift gears from the work aspect of it now to be able to touch our emotions, have that closure and having so many people who that support.”
Cook said he worked with Smith for several years. She said that though the memorial ride is emotional, it is very fitting.
“Roger, a jeep enthusiast, he loved his jeep. The fact they can bring all the jeeps out and a lot of the guys are surely apart of the Blue Knights knew Roger well. It’s a chance for them to come out and do it in their own way and say goodbye to their brother,” he continued.
At exactly 10:42 a.m., because 10-42 is a police code that represents an officer’s ending tour of duty, the group hit the road.
From Jeeps to cruisers and motorcycles, they traveled down Garner Road, Tryon Road and passed by WakeMed Garner.
“He was always a joy to work with, always a joy to train with,” Cook said. “He would show up and always had a smile.”
The Memorial ride ended at Logan’s Roadhouse. It was a powerful moment, a chance for Smith’s extended family to say goodbye.
Across the police scanners, dispatchers gave Smith’s final goodbye.
“Wake Central to all units. 204 Officer Roger Smith is off duty and out of service for the final time.”