Wreath laying ceremony honors fallen troopers

DOVER, Del. On a cold and dreary Wednesday morning, hearts were full and hero’s were remembered at the Delaware State Police’s annual wreath laying ceremony.

“It’s a day of being thankful and it’s a day of remembrance and it’s a day to pay some resort to those who made the ultimate sacrifice,” said Sargent Richard Bratz.

One by one, heroic names were read aloud to honor the state troopers killed in the line of duty over the years. Among those names was trooper Sandy Wagner. The first female Delaware state trooper killed in the line of duty in April of 1996.

“We always remember her, but this just makes it a little extra special today,” said Trooper Wagner’s father Joe Wagner.

“The memories come with more smiles and more laughter than tears now after so many years,” said Trooper Wagner’s sister Candace Roseo.

Families say despite the pain of not having their loved ones here anymore, they’re uplifted to see an entire community that’s supporting them every step of the way.

“Every time we come out here it’s just so encouraging to see the other survivors and know that you do survive, it’s just a new normal,” said Trooper Wagner’s step-mom Betty Wagner.

And while these officers are no longer with us— they’re legacy will forever live on and everyone will remember the ultimate sacrifice they made.

Officials add that since last years wreath laying ceremony, they have not had any Delaware state troopers killed in the line of duty.