SE Illinois News

State Senator Dale Fowler and Representatives Paul Jacobs and Patrick Windhorst came together on Wednesday to honor the memory of fallen police officer Brian Pierce Jr. A dedication ceremony was held at the Spillertown Community Center, following the passage of SJR 31 in his honor.

During the ceremony, Senator Fowler expressed his admiration for Officer Pierce's contributions to southern Illinois. He highlighted how Pierce played a crucial role in establishing a police department in Spillertown, which had been non-existent for over a decade. Fowler emphasized the importance of recognizing Pierce's positive impact on public safety and never forgetting his service to the community and the entire region.

Officer Pierce Jr. tragically lost his life on August 4, 2021, while carrying out his duties as a police officer in the Metro East area. He was working for the Village of Brooklyn and attempting to stop a fleeing vehicle by deploying stop sticks.

Representative Windhorst acknowledged the sacrifice made by officers like Pierce, who put their lives on the line to protect their communities. He stated, "Our world is a better, safer, more peaceful and just place because Officers like Brian Pierce, Jr. step into the breach on our behalf, offering their time, their bodies, and their lives to stop dangerous criminals and keep all of us safe." Windhorst emphasized the importance of memorializing fallen heroes like Pierce and recognizing their service and sacrifice.

The dedication ceremony was a result of the passage of Senate Joint Resolution 31 during the Spring Legislative Session. This resolution designates a section of Illinois Route 37, stretching from Longstreet Road to Prosperity Road through Spillertown, as the "Officer Brian Pierce Jr. Memorial Highway." The highway will serve as a lasting tribute to Officer Pierce's memory and his commitment to public safety.

Representative Jacobs expressed his support for the construction of memorial highway signs, stating, "I believe it is critical that we continue to construct memorial highway signs where appropriate because our citizens who live in peace and safety should be reminded of why that is the case." He also extended his thoughts and prayers to the Pierce family, acknowledging that their loss continues to be deeply felt.

Officer Brian Pierce Jr. was not only a dedicated police officer but also a valued member of the community. He was a graduate of Elkville High School and had served on the Elkville Fire Department and as a correctional officer at the Menard Correctional Facility. He also dedicated his time to the Makanda Township Fire Department, where he trained younger firefighters.

The dedication ceremony at the Spillertown Community Center served as a poignant reminder of Officer Pierce Jr.'s selfless service and the impact he had on the lives of those around him. The Officer Brian Pierce Jr. Memorial Highway will stand as a permanent tribute to his memory, ensuring that his legacy lives on.

To learn more, click on this link: https://senatorfowler.com/2023/11/01/sen-fowler-and-reps-jacobs-and-windhorst-honor-fallen-officer-brian-pierce-jr/