The somber tribute to three Mississippi law enforcement officers — and others around the country — who died in the line of duty was a fitting memorial to their sacrifice.

Thousands of candles were lit in honor of their lives Sunday.  The recognition in Washington, DC during National Police Week was especially touching for Lincoln County, as one of our own was honored for his service.

Lincoln County Deputy Sheriff Donald William Durr’s name was added to the National Law Enforcement Memorial, along with fellow Mississippians Quitman County Deputy Sheriff James Edward Clark and Shannon Police Chief Bobby Gene Spencer.

Durr was killed in May of 2017 while responding to a domestic dispute in Bogue Chitto. The suspect is accused of killing seven others that night and into the next morning.

The memorial in DC will forever mark the supreme sacrifice made by Durr. But those who knew him and loved him don’t need his name etched in stone to remember him. They will forever cherish their memories of him.

By all accounts, he was a much-loved father, husband, son, deputy and even puppeteer. Durr no doubt touched the lives of many.

We are grateful for the service of all officers, especially those who give their lives in service to others. It’s a sacrifice few understand.

Durr and the hundreds of other officers listed on the memorial — and their families — deserve our respect and gratitude.