SIDNEY – On Thursday, dozens of current and retired Troop C New York State Police officers and their families gathered in somber remembrance to honor the lives of those who had served with the Troop and lost their lives in the line of duty over the years at the troop's annual Memorial Day service held in Sidney.

A wreath-laying ceremony was performed by the family of Glen Woods, who had been assigned to the Endwell barracks of Troop C. He died of natural causes in May 2015 while training at the police academy. Woods wife, Kelly, and children Joshua and Brenna, joined in the ceremony.

“This morning’s ceremony serves as a tribute to the genuine heroes” who served their community, said Troop C Commander Major James Barnes. “We never want to forget the sacrifices that were made, please take comfort your state police family is with you.”

Barnes, who has served with Troop C for more the 27 years and was recently promoted to his post as Commander just last year, said that convening over the ceremony is “one of the greatest responsibilities of a troop commander.