In light of the camaraderie they have shared recently, the Victorian and NSW police officers marking National Police Remembrance Day in Albury were joined by an Australian Defence Force representative.
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A service of fewer than 30 people took place at the Albury police station, restricted by COVID-19.
Murray River Police Acting Superintendent Owen Hill reflected on what has been the most challenging 12 months in his career and new bonds created as a result.
"Although things are slightly different this year, we still come together as we have in previous years, to honour those that have given the ultimate sacrifice," he said.
"We also acknowledge the years of service and commitment of retired police officers.
"The past 12 months have been very difficult, for a number of reasons, including responding to the current pandemic, along with the recent bushfires.
"Out of this, we have seen unprecedented levels of solidarity, commitment, camaraderie and mateship with the Australian Defence Force."
ADF Captain Ian Goodwin joined a wreath laying for the service.
Forty-nine serving members of either force who have died within the past 12 months were recognised in an honour roll.
"We love and miss her dearly," he said.
"As we read out that honour roll, there were a number of police, and from over the border as well.
"With events like today, we stand together as one."
Six of the 49 members died whilst performing their duties, including the four Victorian Police members killed on Melbourne's Eastern Freeway.
Wodonga Local Area Commander Inspector Paul Hargreaves said he recognised names on the honour roll every year.
"Sadly, yes, we lose a lot of our people," he said.
"The outpouring of grief over the loss of our four members in April [has] played out very publicly, but on the other side of that, we've lost another 19 members privately.
"It really brought home to the community what it means when you actually lose a member of the police force when they're on duty.
"We grieve for anyone we lose amongst our ranks.
"The least we can do is come together and honour that on one day in particular, but more importantly, we'd ask the community to reflect upon that at all times."
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With hundreds of personnel staffing a closed border, amidst a global pandemic, Inspector Hargreaves said it was a time to consider the role police played.
"In circumstances like what we've been through at the moment with COVID, we've really had to police our communities tightly," he said.
"That can make people reflect a little bit on us and about our level of authority, but we are doing that to make the community safer and in the main, people have supported that.
"I would just ask that people stop and take a moment to reflect on what your police service means to you.
"We are here for you."
