State police memorial service commemorates, celebrates troopers, families
BUTLER TWP — More than 100 state troopers have lost their lives on the job since the organization’s founding in 1905, and 10 of those served Troop D.
Their lives were commemorated at a State Police Memorial Day ceremony at the Butler barracks on Tuesday, May 2.
The day was one of recognition of the families those troopers left behind, and of the hard work done by current officers, according to Trooper Josh Black, Troop D public information officer.
“It’s a celebration of the families whose relatives gave the ultimate sacrifice, and a celebration of each other, as we come together to share stories with current and retired members,” he said.
Black said Pennsylvania was the first to start a state police force.
State police Troop D, stationed in Butler, covers Butler, Armstrong, Beaver, Lawrence and Mercer counties.
Local law enforcement officials and officers mingled with current members of Troop D before the ceremony.
The event began with a presentation of the colors by the state police’s Ceremonial Unit and the national anthem, as well as remarks from Capt. Lisa Jobe, commanding officer of Troop D.
“We reflect on the birth of this organization and recognize those who sacrifice all of their tomorrows so we can live in freedom today,” she said.
Keynote speaker Robert Lizik, former commanding officer of Troop D, said the state police was created to help quell riots in coal mines, and 118 years later, troopers continue to bring peace.
He also spoke of the troopers who lost their lives serving the community.
“They began their shifts unlikely thinking it’d be their last shift ever,” he said. “State police put their lives and safety in danger because that’s the life they chose. Let’s keep that list of fallen officers exactly where it is, with no additions.”
As the names of the fallen Troop D officers were read, carnations were placed on a memorial wreath.
Brenda Coble placed a carnation for her husband, Blake Coble, a trooper from Beaver County who died in 2012.
“It’s just to remember him. It’s been over 10 years now; we’ve done a lot of healing,” she said of her family.
Coble said her two children were in elementary school when her husband died, and they now are in high school. Coble was killed in a motor vehicle crash while on duty.
Family of Floyd Clouse, who died in the line of duty in November 1953, represented him at the ceremony. Floyd’s nephew, Allen Clouse, said he was honored to be there.
“They’re doing good work,” he said of the troopers.
“It makes you realize you might be called upon to give your life in the line of duty,” said Lt. Brian Barnhart of the proceedings.
Black said the current troopers appreciate the service, as well as the opportunity to fraternize together.
“A lot of times, (we’re) all business. Having a gathering with just us means a lot,” he said. “The camaraderie means a lot to us.”
Toward the end of his talk, Lizik addressed the current troopers standing at attention over the ceremony.
“You face a very difficult and challenging job,” he said. “To these members, we owe our never-ending thanks and gratitude.”
