Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King attended the 7th Annual Friends of New England’s Finest reception to honor Corporal Eugene Cole of the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office, who fell in the line of duty in 2018, and Maine State Police Detective Benjamin Campbell, who died last month while helping a stopped motorist.  Corporal Cole’s name was recently added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. 

Senators Collins and King spoke with members of Maine law enforcement at the event.

“It is an honor to join you in paying tribute to the heroes throughout New England who have fallen in the line of duty,” said Senator Collins.  “Last month, the people of Maine commemorated the first anniversary of the loss of Corporal Eugene Cole and grieved the tragic death of State Police Detective Ben Campbell.  The many officers and families from Maine here today prove that we will never forget them and will always honor their service.”

“Each and every day they put on their uniforms, law enforcement officers across the country are knowingly and willingly putting their lives on the line to protect and serve their communities. That’s a special type of bravery that deserves our immense gratitude and respect – and when one of these officers makes the ultimate sacrifice to defend us, it is our duty to honor and remember their service,” said Senator King. “Corporal Eugene Cole and State Police Detective Ben Campbell will be remembered in death as they were known in life: devoted public servants, admired members of their communities, and beloved family men. It’s an honor to join my colleagues and mark their names in our nation’s eternal memory.

Last October, Senator Collins joined the community of Norridgewock at a bridge dedication ceremony to honor Corporal Cole.  Senator Collins, along with members of Corporal Cole’s family, law enforcement, and local and state leaders, delivered remarks paying tribute to the fallen police officer. The Cole family also led a procession across the bridge and unveiled signs memorializing Corporal Cole.

Last May, Senator King spoke on the Senate floor to honor Corporal Cole and other members of Maine law enforcement who passed away while fulfilling official duties.

Friends of New England’s Finest is a non-profit organization based in Washington, D.C., organized exclusively to honor New England law enforcement during National Police Week.  Senators Collins and King are both cosponsors of this year’s Senate Resolution honoring National Police Week