Thousands of uniformed police attend wake for slain New York officer
US police in show of support for slain officers Rafael Ramos and Wenjian Liu as they gather in the New York borough of Queens to attend Ramos' wake
Thousands of uniformed police officers from New York and around the United States gathered at the solemn, eight-hour wake of a city policeman who was killed along with his partner in a brazen daytime shooting a week ago.
Mayor Bill de Blasio, who had been criticised by the police union for his handling of protests critical of the police, briefly attended Rafael Ramos’ viewing on Friday at the Christ Tabernacle Church in Queens, where Ramos was brought in a flag-draped casket and viewed in full dress uniform.
“Dad, I’m forever grateful of the sacrifices you made to provide for me and Jaden,” Ramos’ son, Justin, said during the wake, referring to his younger brother, as officers gathered in the street watched on giant television screens.
Ramos’ funeral is scheduled for Saturday. Vice-President Joseph Biden and Mayor de Blasio said they would attend. The funeral timing for Ramos’ partner, Wenjian Liu, has yet to be announced.
Throughout the day, colleagues and those who knew him described Ramos as a selfless and compassionate man.
Pastor Ralph Castillo said Ramos was a beloved member of the church.