The Clinton County Sheriff’s Office has officially displayed its 6th Annual “Angel Tree” to pay tribute to fallen officers as of yesterday, Dec. 3 in the department’s lobby area.
The display intends to honor the fallen officers of 2024, and as of yesterday, 128 officers and K9s adorn the 5-inch angels that cover the 14-foot tree to continue their legacy.
Among the names displayed are two Indiana fallen officers, Corporal Brandon Schreiber and Deputy Fred Fislar. Schreiber was a member of the Newton County Sheriff’s Office before he was shot and killed in the line of duty on Sept. 11, 2024. Fislar was a member of the Hendrick’s County Sheriff’s Office before he died by electrocution in the line of duty on April 16, 2024.
Matron Ashley Kelly and Administrative Assistants Melody Knox and Shannon Myers decorated the tree this year. Sheriff Rich Kelly expressed his thoughts about the tradition that continues to honor those that gave the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
“It is humbling to see the number of angels and how much they cover the green of the tree,” Kelly said. “These families are grieving through their first Christmas season without their loved ones. We want to show these families that we think of them daily, we stand beside them and we will always honor the service and sacrifice of these officers.”
– Photo courtesy of CCSO