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DRAPER — It’s taken Shante Johnson a long time to heal after losing her husband four years ago, but events like Saturday’s Utah Fallen Officers Memorial Run certainly help.
The 5K run’s purpose is to raise money for families of fallen officers. It started after Johnson’s husband, Draper Police Sgt. Derek Johnson, was shot and killed in the line of duty in 2013.
“For something good to come out of our loss and to know we’re changing lives and helping families and co-workers, I love it,” Johnson said in between cheering for runners at the finish line.
Each year, the run honors five of Utah’s fallen officers with a picture of an officer at every kilometer mark. A few hundred people participated in Saturday’s run.
The officers honored this year were:
Utah Highway Patrol trooper Eric Ellsworth, who was killed in the line of duty on Nov. 22, 2016.
West Valley Police officer Cody Brotherson, who was killed in the line of duty on Nov. 6, 2016.
Emery County sheriff’s deputy Jeremiah Johnson, who was killed in the line of duty on May 27, 2003.
West Jordan police officer Ronald Wood, who was killed in the line of duty on Nov. 18, 2002.
Iron County sheriff’s deputy Edward Dare, who was killed in the line of duty on Sept. 24, 2002.
Organizers said the event is also meant to remember all of Utah’s fallen officers because it’s important to never forget.
“The community just comes out and remembers these guys that gave their lives and I can’t really explain how it feels, but it’s so amazing,” said Jenny Brotherson, the mother of fallen officer Cody Brotherson.
Brotherson said she was fine until she crossed the finish line with the rest of her family.
“‘It was kind of a little overwhelming for a second because, you know, our angel runner isn’t here, but it was good,” she said.
And it’s OK to have fun and smile, knowing those who died in the line of duty — no matter how long ago — will always be remembered. Johnson said it’s how some people heal.
“We’re not going anywhere. We will do this every year. We will be here,” she said.
And every year, she’ll cheer as loud as she wants.
