Each day, more than 900,000 law enforcement officers nationwide put their lives on the line for the safety and protection of others.

However, the protection officers provide comes at a price. 

The Dawson County Sheriff’s Office is no stranger to the loss of a fellow officer.

On March 20, 1998 Bobbie Sue Hoenie had just finished her shift as a detention officer in Dawson County and was on her way to Hall County’s 9-1-1 center to help with overwhelming calls due to a tornado.

Hoenie stopped on Hwy. 53 to assist a motorist who had stopped due to a tree in the roadway.

As she was attempting to help the motorist, Hoenie was struck by another vehicle and died as a result of her injuries.

“Bobby Hoenie had worked for Dawson County for only three months, but her tragic and untimely death will forever leave an impact on her family, friends and fellow officers,” said Donna Rutledge, 9-1-1 supervisor.

This year during National Police Week the Dawson County Sheriff’s Office will hold a memorial service to remember Hoenie and the nation’s fallen officers.

The memorial service will be held at 9 a.m. May 16 in front of the Dawson County Law Enforcement Center. The event is a time to remember the fallen, as well as honor those who are retired or are serving today, Rutledge said.

Dawson County Sheriff Billy Carlisle invites all active and retired law enforcement officers to attend.

Residents are asked to attend and pay tribute to those who unselfishly serve.

Current officers are asked to wear their uniform for the day. Officers not in uniform should wear appropriate courtroom attire.

Dawson County Sheriff’s deputies should also wear mourning bands over their badge May 15-21.

Sheriff Carlisle also encourages the community to display blue ribbons on car antennas during the week.

These blue ribbons are a reminder of law enforcement personnel who have made the ultimate sacrifice and in honor of those men and women who serve communities 24 hours a day, seven days a week, year in and year out.

A limited number of ribbons are available at the law enforcement center.

For more information, call Donna Rutledge or Chad Rogers at (706) 344-3535.