Members of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community gathered in the Two Waters Courtyard on the morning of May 21 to remember and honor fallen Salt River Police Department Officer Clayton Townsend (End of Watch, Jan. 8, 2019) and Officer Jair Cabrera (End of Watch, May 24, 2014).

The program was led by Sergeant Orlando Calzadillas as the morning sun shined upon the uniformed personnel lined up facing the stage. The SRPD Honor Guard posted the colors, and the national anthem was performed by Sarah Brandt. A moment of silence was observed to show respect for and mourn the brave officers who lost their lives in the line of duty while protecting the Community.

The morning was filled with prayers for the officers. First, the Peace Officer’s Prayer was recited by Commander Alejandro McDaniel, followed by a prayer from SRPMIC President Martin Harvier. 

SRPD Chief Walter Holloway shared encouraging words: “As we honor them today, let us do more than remember—let us live in a way that reflects the values they stood for. Let us support one another, serve with purpose and remain committed to the ideals that guided them. Though their watch has ended, their impact endures, in the communities they safeguarded and in the example they set for all of us.” 

The Salt River Fire Department played “Amazing Grace” on the bagpipes, and SRPD Honor Guard Officer Edimar Quintana played the ceremonial Taps. The memorial concluded with SRPMIC Vice-President Ricardo Leonard singing a traditional honor song and some closing remarks from Holloway.