Nashville, Tennessee --- Three wreaths were placed near the lasting memorial at Department of Safety Headquarters Friday, May 18th in observation of National Police Week. Sara Beth Jenks, the widow of slain Trooper Calvin Jenks, gathered with others as the Tennessee Highway Patrol paid tribute to Troopers killed in the line of duty at a special memorial service. The annual event was held at Department of Safety Headquarters, 1150 Foster Avenue, in Nashville. Family members of fallen Troopers, including the family of slain Trooper Calvin Jenks, were present for the service.

On January 6, 2007, Trooper Calvin Wayne Jenks, 24, was shot and killed while making a traffic stop on Highway 14 in Tipton County. Trooper Jenks is one of 38 members of the Tennessee Highway Patrol who have died in the line of duty since the THP was established in 1929.

In delivering the keynote address, Department of Safety Commissioner Dave Mitchell said, “Today, we’re gathered to remember these brave officers for their dedication, their friendships, their lives and their sacrifices. We owe them a great debt that we will fulfill with our dedication to our own calling to the enforcement of law.”

Also addressing the gathering was Colonel Mike Walker, Commander of the Tennessee Highway Patrol, who said, “This is a week devoted to honoring all law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice to their agencies and communities. We must always be deeply grateful for their lasting gifts, and this year, we honor Trooper Calvin Jenks by adding his name to the lasting memorial that stands at Safety Headquarters.”

The service included a roll call of fallen officers, a 21-gun salute by THP’s Special Operations Unit, bagpipes playing Amazing Grace, and a special flyover by THP helicopters with one peeling off the formation to represent “the missing man.” The service coincided with National Police Week, May 14-18, and Peace Officers Memorial Day, which is May 17.

The Tennessee Department of Safety's mission is (www.tennessee.gov/safety) to ensure the safety and general welfare of the public. The department encompasses the Tennessee Highway Patrol, Office of Homeland Security and Driver License Services. General areas of responsibility include law enforcement, safety education, motorist services and terrorism prevention.