SAN ANTONIO – The San Antonio Police Department on Wednesday held a special ceremony to honor the lives of those lost in the line of duty. The most recent was Detective Benjamin Marconi, whose family was at the tribute.
"It is comforting, first of all, to know that so many people went through the extent they went through to honor not only my brother, but also to honor all of the fallen officers here in San Antonio,” said Tom Marconi, Benjamin Marconi’s brother.
"You feel the pain. I’ve gone through so many of these and it never changes. The pain is always there and it’s always so heartfelt," San Antonio police Chief William McManus said.
A 21-gun salute, sounding of Taps, SAPD Pipes and Drums playing "Amazing Grace" and a flyover by the department's Eagle helicopter were used to pay tribute to officers killed in the line of duty.
"We have quite a road ahead. I think a lot of this still feels very surreal. Seeing his picture and the plaque and the memorial in Austin. It was quite overwhelming hearing his name again,” Tom Marconi said about his brother.
Benjamin Marconi was shot while sitting his patrol car outside Public Safety Headquarters in November. He was awarded a Purple Heart after he died. His family said the healing process has not been easy.
"A song will come on or something will happen that particular day, and I will lose it. It’s extremely difficult to go through day to day,” Tom Marconi said.
Tom Marconi said he's comforted by the outpouring of support from the community his brother fought so hard to protect. He said he's grateful and at times, overwhelmed.
"There is just so much support not only throughout the Police Department, but throughout the city of San Antonio that has helped us in our grieving process. But we have quite a road ahead,” Tom Marconi said.
National Police Week takes place May 14-20. It is meant to honor the service and sacrifice of law enforcement officers nationwide.
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