The yearly peace officers memorial service is a somber time to honor those who gave their lives in the service of others.
But this morning ... A bright spot.
An officer who nearly lost his life, rejoining his brothers and sisters in blue for the first time.
Officers and citizens from around the state pay their respects to the fallen.
A bell ring and a rose for each of the seventy one officers who've died protecting the peace in Idaho.
"This memorial is very important in recognizing the selfless duty every single day of the men and women that keep our public safe,"
says Lieutenant Governor Brad Little.
"Their honorable service and sacrifice will not be forgotten."
And while many officers have had close calls, few can rival the story of corporal Kevin Holtry.
Critically injured in a shootout last year, he lost a leg and was paralyzed from the waist down.
But on this special day, he donned his uniform again for the first time.
"First time back, it's pretty awesome," says Holtry, "I liked it. It was weird, but it feels pretty good."
Corporal Holtry has had more than his share of attention since he was injured.
But this day is not about him.
"My name's not on a wall. I came really close. But to honor the guys who gave the ultimate sacrifice, I'm really nobody when it came to that."
Hardly a nobody, he's an officer.
And he says every one of them knows the danger they face on the street.
And donning the uniform again after a near fatal injury is indicitive of the spirit each officer has to serve and protect.
