Police Employee Awards, Memorial Ceremony Announced for Week of May 16
The Champaign Police Department invites the public to attend two events this week as we recognize employees for their efforts and honor our fallen officers with reverence.
On Wednesday, May 18 at 5:30 p.m., the Champaign Police Employee Awards Ceremony will be held at the Champaign Police Department (82 E University Ave, Champaign) to honor the efforts of officers and civilian staff members who have performed exceptionally in their duties during the last year. Awards will include the announcement of Employee of the Year and Officer of the Year and recognizing Commendations for officers who went beyond the call of duty in specific actions.
On Friday, May 20 at 9:00 a.m., the Champaign Police Memorial Ceremony will be held at West Side Park (400 W. University Ave., Champaign) to honor law enforcement officers from around the world who have died in the line of duty. We will pay a special tribute to Champaign Police Officers Thomas Dodsworth (end of watch July 6, 1913), Robert Tatman (end of watch November 25, 1967), and Christopher Oberheim (end of watch May 19, 2021), who paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving the Champaign community.
Police Week events traditionally occur in the week leading up to May 15 of each year during National Police Week. Due to the importance of events honoring fallen Officer Christopher Oberheim at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial, Champaign will hold local events late this year. Both events are open to the public, and attendance is encouraged.