Fallen Fargo Officer Jake Wallin was laid to rest in a private funeral and burial ceremony, with military honors. The Fargo Police Department provided an escort as Wallin’s body was transported along a two-and-a-half-hour procession route from the Fargo Police Substation to Pequot Lakes High School, where the funeral service took place.
Throughout the procession route, people lined the streets to pay their respects, with flags waving in the wind. It was a somber and poignant display of support for the fallen officer and his family.
Wallin tragically lost his life on July 14 when a gunman opened fire on officers responding to a crash scene. The shooter was subsequently killed by law enforcement. Two other officers were injured in the incident and are currently in serious condition at the hospital.
Wallin, who had served in the military and had recently purchased a home, was engaged to be married. He was finishing his training at the Fargo Police Department and had a bright future ahead. Fargo Police Chief praised him as a standout cadet who had clear goals for his law enforcement career.
Footage from Wallin’s body-worn camera unveiled his tremendous courage and selflessness during his final moments. He selflessly put his life on the line to protect others, exemplifying the dedication and commitment expected of a police officer.
His ambition, love for football, and unwavering dedication to ensuring the safety of his community earned him praise from colleagues and loved ones. In recognition of his sacrifice, Wallin was posthumously awarded a Purple Heart and the Minnesota Distinguished Service Medal.
During the funeral service, a chaplain delivered a heartfelt message, urging attendees to dedicate themselves to doing the right thing for the right reasons, just as Wallin had done throughout his life.
While the private funeral provided an opportunity for close friends and family to mourn their loss, a public celebration of life for Wallin is scheduled to take place on Wednesday at Scheels Arena in Fargo. It will serve as an opportunity for the broader community to come together and honor the life of a brave officer who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
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