Aquidneck Island National Police Parade set for May 5

MIDDLETOWN, R.I. (WLNE) — The Aquidneck Island National Police Parade opening ceremony will kick off Sunday, May 5 at 11:30 a.m. in front of the Middletown Hampton Inn.

The parade will then begin at 11:50 a.m. traveling toward Newport, south on Broadway and will end in Washington Square.

The parade will honor Hartford Police Detective Robert Garten, who was killed in the line of duty on September 6 after a motor vehicle accident.

Waltham Police Officer Paul Tracey, who was killed in the line of duty after a motor vehicle accident on December 6 will also be honored, along with Connecticut State Police K-9 Broko who was killed December 21 protecting his handler.

The parade will also honor the 136 officers who lost their lives in the line of duty in 2023.

The parade will begin with a dedication ceremony and singing of the national anthem.

There will be an award ceremony for best cruiser, uniform and best honor guard.

30 police departments are expected to be in attendance as well as over 10 bands.