It was an appropriately gray and somber day at Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens.
These Fallen Hero Day ceremonies have a rhythm of quiet reflection to them what with the bag pipes, the honor guard, and most importantly, the repeated sentiment of appreciation by those of us being served.
"Remember why you are here today,” said Keiffer Mitchell representing Governor Larry Hogan, “Remember the sacrifices of our men and women who have chosen the profession of law enforcement and public safety. When you see these fine folks in your street, in your communities, shake their hands, look them in the eye and say thank you."
Honored this year was firefighter, paramedic Lieutenant John Ulmshcneider.
It was last April when he and a partner responded to a welfare check in Prince George’s County.
When no one answered the door, they made entry and the resident then opened fire and Ulmschneider was killed.
He was 37.
Today his wife received the proclamation from the general assembly remembering him the way the way his loved ones and many others always will...a hero.
A man, who as Ulmschneider's reverend said, used his time on this side to make a difference, a reminder that no one know just how much of it they have.
"So brothers and sisters,” Reverend Raymond Schmidt said, “We have been given the miracle of time. What are you using your time for....what are you doing with your time?"
Also honored were Baltimore County Firefighters Captain William Miller and Firefighter Carl Dill.
They both died in a Catonsville fire in 1955.
Trooper Gregg Presbury was also honored, he died in the line of duty in 1977.
