Official Monthlong Mourning Period Ends For Slain Philadelphia Police Officer
By Tim Jimenez
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Mayor Nutter and city law enforcement officials today marked the end of a 30-day mourning period for Philadelphia police officer Robert Wilson III, killed last month in the line of the duty.
In the mayor's words, "The music to soothe our souls and calm our spirits" played as the city honored Wilson, posthumously promoted to sergeant. A major theme at this City Hall ceremony was never forgetting the fallen officer and his ultimate sacrifice.
"For he is, in fact, not only a hero, but for me -- and, I know, for many, many others -- as the song goes, he will continue to help us and he will be that 'wind beneath our wings,' " Nutter noted.
Police commissioner Charles Ramsey echoed those words and did not mince any, saying he'll never have forgiveness in his heart for the two men now charged in Wilson's death.
Ramsey also noted that Wilson's legacy will live on through the department's Medal of Valor, which will now bear Wilson's name.
"One of the bravest, most courageous members we've ever had the honor of working alongside," Ramsey said.