JACKSONVILLE, Fla – Hundreds of Jacksonville police officers will gather for the annual “Tribute to Fallen Officers” event at Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena Monday night.
For the first time in the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office history, this event will feature a candlelight vigil.
Police Auxiliary Sergeant Lou Livatino’s name will be added to the Police Memorial Wall. He is among the 64 Jacksonville officers to die in the line of duty.
Auxiliary Sergeant Louis “Lou” Livatino died at the age of 71 in January 2021 after a battle with COVID-19 -- which he contracted while in the line of duty.
JSO said Livatino volunteered with the police auxiliary for 10 years, spending his time on the JSO Honor Guard and assisting on countless patrols.
In the months after Livatino died, JSO added yet another name to the wall.
Lieutenant Christopher Cunningham also died from COVID-19 complications. His widow and other family members were there to unveil his name. The ceremony included a prayer, a 21-gun salute and a fly-over.
Lieutenant Cunningham served with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office for 22 years. JSO said he contracted the virus while on the job.
Some road closures are expected by the Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena at 5:00 p.m. The ceremony begins at 8:00 p.m. The public is invited.