With references to the Scriptures, some 50 law enforcement officers were called peacemakers and were honored Wednesday night.
The officers stood before over 100 Henryetta residents in a special ceremony affirming support by the community. Held at the Henryetta Nazarene Church, the nearly hour-long ceremony was interrupted several times by standing ovations.
District attorney Rob Barris quoted from the Book of Matthew where Jesus said, "blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be know as the children of God."
He praised the officers saying he had been at crime scenes, "and it is a tough place to be." Barris went on to say even though law enforcement officers run toward danger, "it is not cool or politically correct today. Our society has more vile words to describe police officers. far too often they are never thanked, never given the respect they deserve."
He told the officers form some 13 law enforcement agencies that, "these people are my heroes."
Okmulgee County Sheriff Eddy Rice expressed his gratitude for the community support. "Here we don't have as many negative views as other places. He said officers have been attacked in recent months and years "by others including the highest office in the United States and the reckless media."
Rice said much of that negative media attention has tainted the views of many people. "Our world has changed," he added, accusing Hollywood and outside media of heaping to increase violence across America.
Nazarene pastor Mike Meeks told the officers that, "you have to face chaos. We don't like chaos. Our world is an organization that would seek peace, so is our country, our state, our community."
"Sadly not all of our citizens agree with us. They do not desire or choose peace."
Every officer present was brought up before the audience and gave their name and agency they serve with.
At the conclusion of the service, a special, End of Watch roll was read listing the names of the nearly two dozen officers killed in the line of duty in the past month.
Following that roll call, the haunting bagpipe strains of "Amazing Grace" was played by Kent Pharaoh. That tune is played at nearly every law enforcement officer's funeral.
When the service was concluded, the officers lined the church foyer and thanked by those attending.
A video narration by commentator Paul Harvey defining a policeman was shown to the group. It can be seen here.
Watch the video of the entire service here.