20th annual peace officers' memorial run to arrive in Ottawa

The 20th annual National Peace Officers' Memorial Run (NPOMR) is underway, as participants will be running over the next three days through multiple cities and towns in eastern Ontario into Ottawa. (OPP/ X)

The 20th annual National Peace Officers' Memorial Run (NPOMR) is underway, with participants expected to make their way into downtown Ottawa Saturday.

On Friday, the run moved through Trenton, Belleville, Tyendinaga, Napanee, Kingston and Brockville.

Officers from across the province will participate in the "Run to Remember" event on Saturday through Prescott, Cardinal, Kempville/North Grenville and into the capital.

The run will end Saturday in the capital, where officers "will join together with members of the Ride to Remember and make their way to the National Police and Peace Officers' Memorial on Parliament Hill," the OPP said on X.

Members of Survivors of Law Enforcement (SOLE) are also taking part in the part in the three-day run to Ottawa.

The run started at the Ontario Police Memorial at Queens Park in Toronto. It is expected to end at the National Police and Peace Officers' Memorial on Parliament Hill. It is meant to honor officers who died in the line of duty, while giving families and runners the opportunity to reflect on their sacrifices.

"On this day, we honour police and peace officers who lost their lives while serving their communities. These individuals devoted their lives to ensuring that others could live theirs without fear. They bravely stood for justice while faced with harrowing circumstances," said Governor General, Mary Simon in a statement Sunday.

"Earlier this month, I was honoured to invest new members into the Order of Merit of the Police Forces. I was moved by their stories of dedication and I was inspired by their sense of mutual support, solidarity, and shared purpose.

"To all those who have been affected by the loss of a colleague, loved one or family member, I would like to extend my sincerest condolences to you. My thoughts and those of Canadians are with you."

Ontario residents are encouraged to come out and cheer the runners and members of SOLE, as the run passes through their town or city.

The NPOMR currently has a contingency of over 300 law enforcement professionals from 30 different agencies across the country.

More information about the route is available at npomr.org.