Standard bearer reflects on Memorial Day

7 October 2024

A Hertfordshire Police Federation member who carried the Force standard at the National Police Memorial Day (NPMD) says it’s an important occasion for the loved ones of officers who have died on duty.

Sergeant Mike Saunders took part in his third NPMD as standard bearer for Hertfordshire Police, joining colleagues from across the UK in a parade before Sunday’s service in Glasgow.

And he said the event demonstrates the best of the policing family.

Mike said: “It’s essential for the families of the fallen because a lot of them are there at the service.

Sergeant Mike Saunders (second right) at National Police Memorial Day. 

“It gives them something to hold onto, that it hasn’t been for nothing, and that the memories will live on with their colleagues.

“I think that’s a powerful thing.”

Mike, who is the Force’s drill instructor, joined the other standard bearers, and the Police Scotland and Scottish Federation Pipe Band for a parade before the service.

It started at George Square in Glasgow and finished at the city’s Royal Concert Hall, where the service was held.

Honour

Mike said: “It’s always a profound honour to be able to do it.

“It’s always nice to meet counterparts from other forces, and to reminisce a little bit and look back at previous years.

“It’s also nice as a group to go into the city to march up through the streets and to listen to the crowd.

“They made lovely comments and showed a real appreciation of what we were doing.

“I think it’s so important that serving officers recognise we won’t forget anybody who has lost their life while serving, and that’s a really important message.

“The National Police Memorial Day shows the policing family in its best light. Everyone coming together to pay their respects and to support each other.”

READ MORE: Sergeant remembered at National Police Memorial Day.