Beyond the Call of Duty honors fallen police officers throughout the U.S.

RICHLAND PARISH, La. (KNOE) - An organization out of Washington drives throughout the country, going to various police departments to honor fallen officers. Today they traveled through Northeast Louisiana.

Family and friends of fallen officers gathered as they gazed at the pictures of 339 officers who died last year... their pictures wrapped around a trailer. An organization called Beyond the Call of Duty is driving around the country, visiting police departments to honor fallen officers.

“Letting the departments know that they’re not alone in the hurt or loss of an officer and letting the survivors know that we are not going to forget their loved ones,” said Jagrut Shah.

Jagrut Shah is a former police officer. He founded the group in 2018 and started the End of Watch Ride. Shah said it’s important to recognize their ultimate sacrifice.

“They have a history, they have a story behind them, and their survivors have a story behind them,” said Shah.

The group stopped at the Mangham Community Center to honor Mangham Police Officer Marshall Waters Jr. He was shot and killed in the line of duty last year. Waters’ mother, sisters, children, and grandchildren were all there to take in the scene.

“It’s extraordinary. He gave his life doing what he loved to do and to see others honor him in a way that’s just speechless… it’s just amazing,” said one of Waters’ sisters, Colette Yearby.

His sisters say the support means a lot, and they know their brother can feel the love from above.

“It’s overwhelming, it gives you an overwhelming sense of love,” said another sister of Waters’, Lavenia Johnson.

The End of Watch Ride traveled North to Rayville. The Richland Parish Sheriff’s office lost two of their own last year. Captain Randy Vallot and Lieutenant Loyd Hamm lost their lives to COVID-19.

Karen Vallot, Capt. Randy Vallot’s wife, heart was touched.

“I knew this was coming so I started crying last night. I’ve been in tears most of the day so it’s very emotional. But I love the way they honor the fallen,” said Vallot.

She said it’s a beautiful way to honor the fallen peace officers of Northeast Louisiana.

“That they’re there for you, they’re there to help you. They are Peace officers,” said Vallot.

The End of Watch Ride is heading to Baton Rouge, hoping to touch the hearts of more people still grieving.

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