'We remember': Tulsa community honors fallen TPD officers at memorial service

The Tulsa Police Department held its annual memorial service to honor those who lost their lives in the line of duty.

Life's Moments

Life is often measured in moments. Some pass quietly, others stay with us forever. Saturday morning was one of those moments, as the community came together to honor Tulsa Police Officers who laid down their lives serving others at the Tulsa Police Department Memorial Service. 

Wall of the Remembered

Out of the 41 names plastered on the walls at the TPD Training Academy, one stands out to retired TPD officer Pat Calhoun. 

“One of my best friends, he was my mentor, we were in K-9 together, Dick Hobson,” he said. 

Officer Hobson died on June 11th, 1996, after he was shot on duty. 

Christie Mulkey also has her loved one on the wall. She hasn’t missed a service in decades - not since the day she lost her husband, Officer Gus Spanos, 32 years ago. 

The memorial service keeps his story alive for those who knew and loved them.

“He would be proud that I still come, and the rest of the families still come to honor our loved ones,” said Mulkey.

The Service

41 names were read aloud, each representing a life lost in the line of duty since 1917. Surviving family members placed flowers at the memorial for each of the fallen officers. After, there was a 21-gun salute. The service is a promise that they will never be forgotten.

“I hope they remember that we remember,” said Calhoun.

For a full list of those honored, click here.