SALISBURY, Md. — Four law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty were honored Thursday morning at a joint memorial ceremony held by the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office and Salisbury Police Department.
The solemn tribute took place at the newly constructed Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office and marked the first public event hosted at the facility. The ceremony coincided with National Peace Officers Memorial Day, observed annually on May 15 to honor fallen officers across the country.
Among those remembered were:
Officer Henry Stephens, Salisbury Police Department (End of Watch: Sept. 5, 1958)
Deputy Albert Kelly, Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office (End of Watch: Dec. 8, 1968)
Sheriff Samuel Graham, Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office (End of Watch: Dec. 8, 1968)
Corporal Glenn Hilliard, Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office (End of Watch:
June 12, 2022)
Salisbury Police Chief Dave Meinschein said "These are days in addition to Officer Henry, but the other officers mentioned, it's an opportunity to reflect and remember those folks that paid that ultimate sacrifice."
"It’s important we not only not forget the sacrifice made by those police officers, but the survivors—and not only the families but their colleagues that are left behind," said Wicomico County Sheriff Mike Lewis during the ceremony.
One of those survivors is Tashica Hilliard, widow of Corporal Glenn Hilliard, who was shot and killed in the line of duty in 2022. She shared heartfelt words about her husband’s legacy and the emotional significance of being at the new facility he once looked forward to.
"Before he passed away, Glenn brought me to the dirt. He was so excited about the new facility,” she said. “I had a lot of emotions here today, realizing that he didn’t get to see this place, he doesn’t get to come here."
Reflecting on the ceremony, Tashica Hilliard added, "It warmed me knowing hopefully in 50 years Glenn’s name will still be shared, and there will still be a memorial. And he will be brought up, and I may not be here to see it."
Next month will mark three years since Cpl. Hilliard’s death. Sheriff Lewis said plans are in motion to further honor his sacrifice.