APTOS—Around 120 people from various Santa Cruz County law enforcement and first responder sectors ran through The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park in the sixth annual Never Forget Memorial Relay on Sunday.
Numerous employees from local fire and police agencies and the probation, sheriff’s and district attorney’s offices formed 32 teams to run in two 5K races.
The goal was to raise funds for the Santa Cruz County Fallen Officers Foundation, said organizer Henry Montes.
“We missed two years because of Covid but we’re back and it feels great,” Montes said. “We’re out here for those that have given their lives to the community. It’s an important day because we never want to forget those that made the ultimate sacrifice.”
Before the race a list of 18 names of fallen first responders was read aloud, starting with Watsonville Police Department Officer John Wesley Alford who died on Feb. 7, 1897.
Congressman Jimmy Panetta helped kick off the event.
“It is an absolute honor that I can be here to speak to you at an event that has contributed so much for the Fallen Officer Foundation, so that it can provide the support necessary for our first responders and their families,” Panetta said. “We’re here today for our first responders who run toward the danger.”
Victim advocate Rochelle Ferro of the Santa Cruz County District Attorney’s Office said she was proud to be one of the runners.
“I just moved here from New York and it feels great to be a part of this community,” she said. “Being with everyone here today at this event is a great way to show support.”
WPD had eight officers taking part in the relay.
“This is an important day for all of us here to remember and recognize those that have come before us and given their lives for the protection of their community and possibly other members of the law enforcement family,” Officer Naim Figueroa said.
Prior to the start of the relay, 13-year-old Bryan Francis sang “The Star-Spangled Banner” acapella to a crowd of more than 300.
