CARMICHAEL, CA (MPH) - Dozens of uniformed Sacramento Sheriff’s officers last weekend joined families who sacrificed loved ones in service to community or nation.

The gathering saluted Deputy Robert French, who was inducted to the Wall of Honor at Patriots Park. The ceremony added French’s plaque to those of 13 previous honorees. Erected by Carmichael Park District, the monument salutes heroes who fell since the District was established in 1945.

A Los Angeles native, French perished during a criminal incident in August 2017. The 52-year-old father of three fell while protecting fellow officers during a gun fight at the Ramada Inn, Auburn Boulevard. A 21-year Sheriff’s Department veteran, he had worked with Problem Oriented Police in the North Area Division. Speaking at Patriots Park, his daughter Kaylen French praised the dad who raised her and siblings in Arden Arcade. “It’s heartbreaking, but I am very proud and honored to celebrate his life today,” she said.

 “We recognize the passage of time does not shield you from the emptiness you feel,” County Supervisor Susan Peters told families of the men whose names are recalled by 14 plaques. “We nevertheless hope Patriots Park is a source of comfort and pride in remembering your loved ones. Whatever uniform they wore, we will be forever grateful for their dedication. The community will never forget their sacrifice.”

Congressman Ami Bera, Sheriff Scott Jones, Carmichael Park District directors were among other dignitaries at Saturday’s memorial.

Patriots Park monument honors the following heroes:

Deputy Robert French, Deputy Danny P. Oliver, CHP Officer Ronald E. Davis, Army Specialist James E. Schlottman, Army Leiutenant Robert S. Byrnes, Airforce Captain Olin E. Gilbert Jnr, Army Sergeant Larry H. Morford, Firefighter Dean W. Rhoades, US Navy pilot Lieutenant  J. G. David A Warne, Marine and firefighter Sergeant Brian E. Dunlap, Deputies Kevin P. Blount and Joseph M. Kievernagel, Army Sergeant Ronald L. Coffelt, Army Specialist Raymond N. Spencer Jnr.

Anyone may visit the Wall of Honor. Patriots Park is located at 6825 Palm Avenue, Fair Oaks.