Police officers will today remember colleagues who have lost their lives while serving and protecting their communities.

At commemorative services held around the country as part of National Police Remembrance Day, officers will pause to pay tribute.

“Today is an important day, but also a sombre day,” said Acting Commissioner Scott Tilyard.

“We remember our fallen colleagues as we light a remembrance candle in their memory today and share the losses felt by their families and loved ones.”

“We come together in camaraderie, wearing the traditional blue and white chequerboard ribbon, to pay tribute to the fallen and to provide support to each other.”

As part of the Wall to Wall Ride for Remembrance to the National Police Memorial earlier this month, sadly the Tasmania Police Remembrance Baton did not arrive empty.

This year the baton contained a scroll with the name of a historical nomination; Constable Kenneth Shaw from Hobart who died in 1982 at the age of 42.

Constable Shaw was assisting colleagues with an arrest at the Tasmanian Cricket Association Ground when he was kicked in the leg by a spectator resisting arrest, and died two days later from a blood clot.

“Serving in what are often challenging and dangerous situations, we are reminded how an ordinary day can turn into a tragic one.”

“In what is a day of reflection, I acknowledge and praise the dedication and commitment of our members to serving the Tasmanian Community.”

“As we pause to remember those who are no longer with us, it is also a time to reach out to those around us and ask; are you ok?”

“I encourage each and every one of you to not only take care of others, but also take care of yourselves,” said Acting Commissioner Tilyard.