HUMBLE, Texas – A memorial ceremony Monday morning recognized law enforcement officers who have lost their lives and honored those serving to protect communities throughout Texas.
It was a solemn moment as officers did a roll call for the 16 peace officers who died in Texas last year.
The ceremony marks the start of National Police Week.
There were three deaths in the Houston area.
Chief Deputy Constable Clint Greenwood, with Harris County Pct. 3 Constables Office was killed when a gunman ambushed him in Baytown on April 3.
Officer Elias Martinez, with the Metro Police Department, died Sept. 17 in a motorcycle crash in League City.
Sgt. Steve Perez with the Houston Police Department died in floodwaters from Hurricane Harvey as he was trying to report for work.
Deputy Shane Bennett, 29, with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office died in the line of duty in a shootout during a home invasion in northeast Harris County in June 2002.
Since then, Bennett’s parents have been active in the law enforcement community. They say it's a way for families to heal and offer support.
“We're so proud of all the things that Shane has done, but also all of the others. We respect every day they put on the badge, and go out there to protect us,” said Annette Bennett.
"That is a part of the healing process for me. To help others. And let them know that someone is thinking of them and their loved one," said Bennett's father, Ron Bennett.
This is the fourth year U.S. Ted Poe, R-Texas has held the ceremony.
National Police Week ends Sunday. Communities across the nation will hold similar memorial ceremonies honoring local, state and federal law enforcement officers.