RILEY COUNTY, Kan. (WIBW) -- The Riley County Police Department, along with members of other local and state agencies, honored officers killed in the line of duty Friday.

A ceremony was held at the Riley County Police Department off of Seth Child Road in Manhattan Friday morning to recognize National Peace Officers Memorial Week.

Members of the Kansas State University Police Department, Manhattan Fire Department, Kansas Highway Patrol and Wamego Police Department along with local prosecutors and city and county officials were also in attendance.

Six Riley County police officers have lost their lives on the job. Their deaths occurred between 1866-1982.

Brad Schoen, Director of the Riley County Police Department spoke to 13 News after the ceremony.

“It’s really a somber occasion. We are, after all, recognizing the loss of six people who died in the line of duty. On the other hand, it’s hard not to look at an occasion like that, six occasions like that, and celebrate their willingness to sacrifice and the good that came as a result. We are, as an organization- the Riley County Police Department, what we are because of our history and those officers are a big part of our history so I think it’s entirely fitting that we take some time today to celebrate their lives. Their family members who may still be out there today still miss them but that’s something that they’re going to struggle with forever and that’s a sad thing. So really, the occasion is somewhat somber and somewhat a celebration because I think at some point in time, grief passes and you get to the part where you can indeed celebrate a loved one’s passing and the legacy they left behind and that’s what today is all about- legacy,” he said.

City, county and RCPD officials also showed their appreciation for the entire police force and department staff for their service and commitment to the community.