The state honors fallen police officers. Former Fond Du Lac Chief of Police Tony Barthuly recalled an officer proud to serve his community. “Craig Birkholz was a young man who you’d be proud to call your son,” said Barthuly of the Fond Du Lac officer killed in the line of duty in March of 2011. “He had the biggest heart, the nicest smile, the best values that you could imagine.”
“We recognize not only that death, but more importantly we honor his life,” said Governor Scott Walker of Birkholz. “By everybody’s definition he was a brave and loyal officer, and truly lived the life, not just wearing the uniform,” said Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen.
AUDIO: Tony Barthuly (1:40)
In addition to Birkholz, Beloit Officer Frederick Samp, killed in 1935, had his name added to the memorial on the grounds of the state Capitol. Marathon County Sheriff’s Deputy Jamison Kampmeyer, killed while serving as a volunteer firefighter in March of this year, was also honored at the 22nd Annual Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony.