Futcher family remembers grandfather, honors all law enforcement

The Futcher family, elected officials and members of the law enforcement community came together Aug. 13 to commemorate the 81st anniversary of Charles Wilson Futcher Sr.’s death and to honor the service of all working in the law enforcement community. 

“Annual memorial ceremonies always provide comfort and unity for families and law enforcement in many ways,” said JuneRose “JR” Futcher, Charles’ granddaughter. “I look forward every year to these programs representing my hometown and Delaware.”

Futcher also expressed her gratitude to the City of Lewes, Sussex County Council, Delaware Chapter of Concerns of Police Survivors, Delaware Electric Cooperative, House Speaker Rep. Pete Schwartzkopf, D-Rehoboth Beach, Rep. Steve Smyk, R-Milton, and Rep. Ruth Briggs King, R-Georgetown, for their continued support in her mission to remember and honor the fallen in Delaware. 

Briggs King said it is important to honor law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty, and to recognize the sacrifices their families have made.

“The picture we took today depicts the devotion and commitment of a family that suffered a loss,” she said. “Generations later they still feel that loss, and doing this honors that person and that family for the things that they have missed and sacrificed.” 

According to the Officer Down Memorial Page, 46 Delaware law enforcement officers have been killed in the line of duty.

Mayor Ted Becker was unable to attend the ceremony, but shared his appreciation of the service of law enforcement officers and their families. 

“As we recognize the important role of our law enforcement personnel, it is essential that we also recognize the vital role the families of these men and women play in the performance of their duty,” he said. “It is especially important that we take time to recognize the families of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.”