Fifty-three years ago, June 2, 1965, is a day that should forever be etched in the memory and conscience of Washington Parish. On that day, a hero fell. Military veteran and Washington Parish Sheriff’s Deputy O’Neal Moore was assassinated as he patrolled the highways of northeast Washington Parish. A resident of Varnado, Moore was survived by his wife, Maevella Moore, and four young daughters.

Each day, as I walk into the Sheriff’s Office lobby in Franklinton, I see our Fallen Heroes Memorial wall and the bronze likeness of Deputy Moore which is prominently displayed as the centerpiece of the wall. I am daily reminded of the ultimate sacrifice he gave for me and all other citizens of our fine parish.

Deputy Moore was only 34 years old at the time of his death. He was a young man, a dedicated man and a loyal man whose goal in life was to be the best husband and father he could be while he faithfully served as the first African-American deputy in the history of our parish.

Soon after I took office as your sheriff, I presided over the dedication of the Fallen Heroes wall. This was a special day for all of Washington Parish as we honored the memories of Deputy Moore and others who gave the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

May we never forget our hero, Deputy Sheriff O’Neal Moore, and may our memory of that tragic day serve as a constant reminder of our obligation to love, honor and protect each other.

Randy “Country” Seal is the Washington Parish sheriff.