Tribute to honor slain officers

Compared to past years, planners of Tuesday’s Sept. 11 tribute event were preparing for a downsized version of ceremonies.

Originally, it was to include the placing of flags, with a brief welcome and introduction of the musicians who are performing, said Jan Hammitt of American State Bank, one of the organizers of “An American Tribute” at Memorial Gardens Park.

Unlike past years, there was to be no special speakers or recognition of the event’s board of directors.

But that all changed Saturday.

“It’s really taken on a whole new perspective,” she said. “It’s very moving and very personal now.”

With the fatal shootings of two Odessa police officers and critical wounding of a third, Hammitt said adjustments are being made to the tribute.

Instead of the 3,000 flags that have flown in the previous five tributes flags will also be placed to honor fallen Cpl. Arlie Jones and Cpl. Scott Gardner.

“It’s like a fresh wound,” she said. “It’s like it was the very first year we did it.”

Flags will also be placed to honor two Odessa Police Department officers who died in the line of duty in previous years, bringing the total to 3,004 flags.

Cpl. Gordon “G.T.” Toal was killed in a traffic accident in 1982, while Scott Stanton Smith died in 1988 as a result of a traffic accident the previous year.

A yet-to-be determined speaker will also pay tribute to the slain officers and the wounded Cpl. Abel Marquez, Hammitt said.

Although the event was created to honor the victims of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, Hammitt said it has always honored local first responders, as well.

Steve Patton, Odessa parks and recreation director, said there’s even more reason to remember this year.

“It’s one of our most spectacular events,” he said. “It’s not only a beautiful scene at the park but a very meaningful event.”

>> What: American State Bank, the City of Odessa's Parks Department and community volunteers have scheduled ``An American Tribute.''

>> When: 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

>> Where: Memorial Gardens Park, 4730 E. 42nd St., (formerly Buffalo Wallow).

>> Includes: 3,004 American flags will placed around the park in remembrance of slain Odessa police officers and those who perished in the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.