Honoring Service, Sacrifice, and Legacy: Police Week 2026

Posted on by

Fairfax County, VA – As Police Week 2026 comes to a close, we reflect by honoring the memory of our fallen heroes: police officers and K9 partners who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the Fairfax County community. Their courage, dedication, and sacrifice continue to shape our department and inspire those who serve today.

Remembering Our Heroes

At our annual Rose Garden Memorial Ceremony, these portraits were unveiled in honor of our fallen heroes, preserving their legacy and sacrifice for generations to come.

Fallen Officers

  • Police Officer Karen Jean Bassford, died in a vehicle crash on July 27, 1977, while responding to a burglary call.
  • Special Officer Hendrick “Sandy” Gideonse, died in a vehicle crash on December 3, 1998.
  • Captain Tommy F. Bernal, died in a motorcycle crash on June 28, 2001, after 29 years of service.
  • Detective Vicky O. Armel, killed in the line of duty on May 8, 2006, during a shooting outside of the Sully District Station.
  • Master Police Officer Michael “Gabby” Garbarino, succumbed to his gunshot wounds on May 17, 2006, following the same incident.
  • Second Lieutenant Francis “Frank” Stecco, lost during a water rescue training exercise on October 25, 2008.

Fallen K9 Partners

  • K9 Bandit, shot and killed in action on August 5, 1975, while apprehending a suspect.
  • K9 Doby, passed away on February 22, 2019, after suffering a medical emergency while responding to an armed robbery.

Each name represents a legacy of service, sacrifice, and commitment to protecting others.

The Meaning Behind Police Week

National Police Week is observed each May and honors law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Established by President John F. Kennedy in 1962, Police Week serves as a time of remembrance, reflection, unity, and support for surviving families, fellow officers, and communities across the nation.

Within Fairfax County, we continue that commitment to remembrance through annual memorial traditions that ensure our fallen heroes are never forgotten.

This year, the Fairfax County Police Department held its annual Rose Garden Memorial Ceremony, bringing together officers, staff, survivors, and families to honor those we have lost in the line of duty. The ceremony serves as one of the department’s most meaningful traditions, reflecting on lives of service and sacrifice while reaffirming our promise to carry their legacy forward.

We also continue to honor Detective Vicky Armel and MPO Michael Garbarino during the Sully District Station Memorial, ensuring their sacrifice remains forever rooted in the history of our agency.

A Week Dedicated to the Fallen

Throughout Police Week 2026, members of the Fairfax County Police Department participated in events across the region alongside thousands of officers, survivors, supporters, and partner agencies.

Memorial Events and Traditions

Officers, recruits, professional staff, families, and members of our Honor Guard and Pipes & Drums participated in the annual 5K honoring fallen officers and supporting surviving families.

  • National Police Week K9 Memorial Service

FCPD joined agencies from across the country honoring the service and sacrifice of police K9s, recognizing the unwavering bond between handler and partner.

  • 38th Annual Candlelight Vigil

Chief Kevin Davis had the honor of reading the names of fallen officers during one of the most solemn and impactful moments of the week at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial.

  • C.O.P.S. Family Event at the Fairfax County Criminal Justice Academy

At the conclusion of the week, we were honored to host children of fallen officers from across the country for a day focused on support, connection, and healing. Officers also participated in escorting families to the academy, helping welcome them for a meaningful day together.

• Stand Watch for the Fallen

Members of our Honor Guard joined agencies from across the country during Stand Watch for the Fallen at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. Throughout the night, Honor Guard members stood post in remembrance of the officers who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Their Legacy Lives Beyond This Week

Police Week serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers and their families. It is also a reflection of the unity, compassion, and commitment that continue to define the law enforcement profession.

To those who served, to those who continue to serve, and to those we have lost, we remember you, we honor you, and we will continue carrying your legacy forward.

For more photos from Police Week events, visit our Flickr page.

Register your camera with Connect Fairfax County to help support investigations, locate missing persons, and assist officers in solving crimes.

For ongoing updates, visit FCPD News and follow Fairfax County Police Department on X, Facebook, and Instagram at @FairfaxCountyPD.