Twenty-one Akron Police Officers killed in the line of duty were honored during a memorial service hosted by the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #7 Wednesday morning.

The service, held at Wolter Park Wednesday morning, was dedicated to officers who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving their community.

"Police officers know, that at any given moment, they may face horrors beyond anyone's imagination," said FOP President Paul Hlynsky. "Yet, the special people who put on that uniform and badge everyday do so freely, proudly, and with the kind of courage in which hesitation is not even a consideration."

A 21-gun salute followed by the playing of taps honored the officers killed over the past several decades in Akron.

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Every 53 hours, an officer is killed in the line of duty across the country, according to Hlynsky. Thirty-four officers have already lost their lives this year.

Hlynsky said the bravery shown by each of the fallen officers deserves the highest honor.

"We stand together and pledge to the families sitting here that we will live the words that are written on our memorial in front of the station, "Never Forget," said Hlynsky.

FOP Lodge #7 President Paul Hlynsky Honoring Fallen Akron Police Officers by Amani Abraham