The City of Hattiesburg provides a memorial ceremony for fallen officers

HATTIESBURG, Miss. - Hundreds of people gathered together Wednesday morning to show their respect at this year's “Police Memorial Ceremony.”

Mayor of Hattiesburg, Johnny DuPree said, "We had Hattiesburg, Forrest County, Petal, and Mississippi Highway Patrol come together to remember those who give their lives to protect us."

After the tragic shooting that claimed the lives of two Hattiesburg Police Officers, people throughout the community wanted to provide their most heartfelt support.

Cpt. Nick Calico, Forrest County Sheriff’s Department investigator said, "A lot of outreach from the community and it's just our way to give respect to the families of the officers that have lost a loved one in the line of duty."

The memorial ceremony resonated with many law enforcement officers.

"The officers that were killed in the line of duty, they actually paved the way for us to be here. They started something and we as officers now are here to finish their job for them, said Calico."

The Hattiesburg Police Department, Forrest County Sheriff's Department, and Mississippi Highway Patrol have a combined total of 17 officers who have been killed in the line of duty.