New fallen deputies monument unveiled at Orange County Sheriff's Office

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. (FOX 35 WOFL) - A newly redesigned memorial for fallen heroes was unveiled Thursday at the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. 

On the memorial are the names of 21 fallen heroes. They may be gone, but they will never be forgotten.  

As the curtain was removed, families and friends got their first look at the Fallen Deputies Monument.  Some unable to hold back tears. Fighting mixed emotions.

This ceremony was about celebrating the life and work of these deputies. At the same time, it took these survivors back to a moment when they found out their loved ones were killed in the line of duty. 

“Pray for our deputies,” said Norma Lewis, the mother of Norman C. Lewis. 

The memorial dates back to 1870.

One by one, 21 names were read along with the month, day and year marking their end of watch. White roses were carefully placed at the base of the memorial. 

“Words can’t explain the feeling at that moment,” Lewis said. “That’s why it took me awhile to get up.”

The last name read – Norman C. Lewis – January 9, 2017. He was killed in a crash while pursuing accused killer Markeith Loyd. 

“I want to say… Norm… I love you and I miss you,” she said. “You will never be forgotten.” 

Her son’s name will be forever memorialized for making the ultimate sacrifice. 

“All of them will never be forgotten,” Lewis said. “And I can tell you I will definitely be sitting on that bench.” 

Officials said this memorial will allow friends, family members and co-workers a place to sit, reflect and pay their respects.