CHARLESTON, WV – In honor of the significant contributions and sacrifices made by the brave men and women of the West Virginia State Police over its storied history, and in commemoration of the centennial anniversary of the creation of the WVSP, Gov. Jim Justice issued a proclamation today, officially recognizing March 29, 2019 as the 100th Anniversary of the West Virginia State Police.
The proclamation was read Friday in front of a crowded theater inside the State Culture Center, on hand for a ceremony to celebrate the milestone anniversary.
“This organization of people, they are unbelievable,” Gov. Justice said as he addressed members of the audience, many of whom were active or retired troopers with the State Police. “So often they are underappreciated and underpaid and we need to correct all of that because the very first thing we call when we’re in trouble or we’re afraid is them and they come charging into the fire to help us.”
The event also included the unveiling of a new exhibit located in the State Theater gallery, which features 100 years of WVSP history and will be on display until October.
During Gov. Justice’s remarks he also paid special tribute to the families of the 41 state troopers who lost their lives in the line of duty over the past 100 years. Many of the fallen troopers’ family members were in attendance for Friday’s ceremony.
“The amount that these families have given is just unthinkable,” Gov. Justice said. “I thank you and I bless you. I ask that in every way in the world, the good Lord above makes life one step better and lets you know that, beyond a shadow of a doubt, you’re not forgotten, nor are they forgotten, and they are never anything other than appreciated.”