Manhattan — The flag at half-staff and a salute for the American men and women killed in the line of duty…
Residents and officers recognize those who’ve dedicated their time to protecting Riley County community.
“I think it is wonderful and I’ve really appreciated the work they’ve done,” says Annamary Hosler, Riley County Police Department’s first woman police officer.
At the fall of a curtain, a wall of pictures recognizes 38 retired Riley County Police workers who’ve served the community for 10 years.
“It’s important to include the retirees, to make them a part of the family again,” Hosler says.
More than 50 years ago, the County police station merged, substantially increasing its staff size and jurisdiction.
“They were younger than I. It changed a lot, but I appreciate being able to be here with them,” says Sam Riniker, RCPD’s oldest living retiree.
As each look at the individual faces on the wall, including their own, a sense of pride stretches across their smiles.
They say they are happy to be a part of the police department that’s grown vastly since they’ve last worked.
Yet due to new technology, some say the building isn’t as open-door friendly as in the past.
The wall invites staff to come back and reclaim their pride.
“Makes us more of a family,” says Elke Weese, who served as a RCPD dispatcher for 27 years. “Yeah, we always thought we were a family, but this makes us more of a family.”
For many, the hours were long, the work was hard, but it was all worthwhile.
“I still miss it really bad,” says Joyce Eickman, RCPD investigation secretary for 22 years. “I still miss it, but um, a good group of people to work with. A lot of fun.”
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