Police officers, emergency fire/EMS crews and friends and family gathered on Tuesday morning to honor the memory of deceased New Bern officer Alexander E. Thalmann.

The crowd, which consisted of people from New Bern, Washington and Greenville, gathered to dedicate a swing in Thalmann’s memory along the Washington waterfront in what used to be one of his favorite spots to enjoy the view.

Thalmann passed away last year at age 22 after sustaining gunshot wounds from suspect Bryan Stallings as Stallings fled after being stopped for questioning. Another officer, Justin Wester, was involved but survived his gunshot wounds. Thalmann had only been with the New Bern Police Department for seven months.

At the gathering on Tuesday, New Bern Police Chief Toussaint E. Summers Jr. thanked all of the contributors who made the memorial swing possible and said Thalmann left behind a positive legacy.

“The city is greatly indebted to you. … Thank you, thank you, thank you,” Summers said. “Officer Thalmann’s life impacted us for the good.”

Thalmann’s mother Stacey spoke to the crowd and said she is grateful for the donations she has received and plans to give what is left over to the Police Activities League.

Stacey Thalmann implored the crowd to always do what an officer asks when stopped and try to understand the officer’s point of view because it could mean the difference between life and death.

“You all have my heart,” she said to the crowd. “Alex loved it here. … This was his favorite spot, in fact.”

Washington Police and Fire Services Director Stacy Drakeford said all officers understand that putting their life at risk is part of the job, and each officer is prepared to make that sacrifice.

“He paid the ultimate sacrifice,” Drakeford said. “We know that at times when we leave home it could be our last day.”

He said it’s important for officers to leave home and leave their families for work as if it were the last time.

“When people come to visit Washington, they’ll know we’ll never forget those who paid the ultimate sacrifice,” Drakeford said. “It’s just a great day, and that’s all I can say.”