Meeker County Sheriff’s Office will hold a memorial service in honor of National Law Enforcement Memorial Day Thursday.

Sheriff Chaplain Jeff Garland will lead the 9:30 a.m. service in the Law Enforcement Center parking lot with past chaplain Terry Olthoff assisting.

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy proclaimed May 15 as National Law Enforcement Memorial Day, and it continues to be a day of memorial for the officers who have died doing their duties.

Garland said officers and the public will meet around the center's flag pole for prayers and a brief speech by Olthoff.

"It will just be a recognition in memorial to law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty," said the Cornerstone Church pastor.

Olthoff, now a pastor in Edgerton, Minn., said the annual event helps the community realize the sacrifice peace officers make by putting a desire to protect the public ahead of their own personal lives.

"We can't take what they do for granted because then it becomes meaningless," Olthoff said. "We need to keep them in the forefront our minds because they’re there to serve us. They're there to protect us, and It’s just to show a little gratitude."

Sheriff Capt. Brad Lindgren said the public's recognition is much appreciated. "I think it gives solace to all of us, especially to me, that people do care," he said.