Today I took part in the Police Remembrance Day service at the Royal New Zealand Police College where I work.
This day falls on 29 September each year, the feast day of the Archangel Michael – the patron saint of police.
The official service honours the New Zealand, Australian and South Pacific police officers who have been slain on duty.
I thought this would be meaningful to those TMPers who are fellow ex and serving law enforcement officers from all over the world.
The symbol of Police Remembrance Day here in New Zealand is the chevron-embedded huia feather, which is worn as a pin by officers, families and others as a mark of respect.
Considered 'tapu', or sacred, by Mâori, the wearing of the huia tail feather as ornamentation is considered a great honour. The tail plumage of the huia bird, now also lost to us, is extremely special.
The incorporation of the New Zealand Police chevron symbol into the huia tail feather, with the small cut at the top signifying loss, communicates the honour and loss of someone special to police.
More of my thoughts on the service can be found here:link
