PHOTOS: This past weekend, a flag dedication ceremony was held at the Lakewood Little Field opening day, in honor of slain officer Chris Matlosz and the other Lakewood officers – Preslar and Ricter – who died in the line of duty. In honor of the officers, a flag was erected beneath the existing flag which flies at the John Patrick memorial in the center of the Vine Street John Patrick Sports Complex.
During the dedication ceremony, the first pitches of the baseball season were thrown out. Pitches were thrown out by Tom Ricter, Lillian Trella – both family members of Ricter and Preslar, and by Lakewood Police Captain Gregory Meyer.
Captain Meyer – who coordinated the flag event – was a Little League Board Member for 10 years, up until last year.
Following the event at the park, officers headed over to Route 37 for another dedication event.
With a bagpipe performance and a buffet, Blue Line Emergency Lighting, a supply shop for police officers – formerly of Beachwood – opened a new storefront in Toms River and dedicated a wall for the men in Blue.
Attending the ceremony, were officers from Lakewood, Ocean Gate,Toms River and Seaside Heights.
Store owner Frank Melillo hung up a plaque on the wall which reads: “I dedicate this store to the memory of our fallen brothers and sisters, shall we never forget. This wall is a constant reminder of the danger we face each day. We stand side by side and live with pride and honor. In valor there is hope. Stay alert, stay alive”. TLS/Cesar Saavedra.
What happened to Ricter?
Patrolman Hartley F. Richter EOW- April 10, 1947
Patrolman Richter was killed in an automobile accident while attempting to stop a traffic violator. He lost control of his patrol car and struck a tree on River Road. He was transported to a local hospital where he died five days later.
Patrolman Richter had served with the agency for 1 year. He was survived by his wife and three children.
Thank you Lakewood Little League for thinking of our fallen officers.