Devin West presents Jennifer Richardson with a Thin Blue Line flag engraved with her husband's law enforcement agency, name and end of watch — EOW —date.

This year, as it has in the past, the Hamilton County Peace Officers Association honored the family of a fallen officer, this year Fremont County Deputy Austin “Melvin” Richardson.

Richardson, 37, of Sidney, collided with a combine driven by a Missouri man in June 2022.

To honor his loved ones, the HCPOA hosted Richardson’s family at the Briggs Woods Golf Course where a fundraising effort raised an-as-yet-undisclosed sum for them. Richardson’s widow, Jennifer Richardson, and daughters Cheyenne, Everly and Bryxtol joined the event.

“Deputy Richardson dedicated his career to serving and protecting our community, and his passion for making a positive difference in the lives of others was truly inspiring,” the Fremont County Sheriff’s Office said in a social media post on the one-year anniversary of his June 14 accident. “His unwavering commitment, professionalism, and selflessness left an enduring impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

“Beyond his role as a courageous law enforcement officer, Deputy Richardson was also a devoted family man. Today, our hearts are heavy as we think of his wife and three precious children, who are facing the challenges of life without their cherished husband and father. In this difficult time, let us offer our unwavering support and remind them that they are not alone.”

Richard’s family was escorted into the golf course by law enforcement officers, passing under an enormous United States flag, and then past the salutes of attendees who lined the parking lot.

“Melvin always ended his conversations the same way,” the Fremont County Sheriff’s Office said in its first anniversary message. “Melvin wasn’t one who said good-bye, rather ‘Be good.’ Over the last year, members of the Fremont County Sheriff’s Office have worked hard to live up to that standard.”

“We had approximately 144 golfers (36 – 4 person teams) participate this year,” HCPOA President Rod Hicok said.

“The escort was led by the Iowa State Patrol and the Webster City Police Department. Webster City Fire Department, Stratford Fire Department, Kamrar Fire Department and Stanhope Fire Department assisted with the welcome of the family at the entrance to the Briggs Woods Golf Course.

“HCPOA members as well as other current and retired police officers and military personnel formed the gauntlet as the family arrived at the club house.”

Gifts were presented to the family by the HCPOA and HCPOA Chaplain Bruce Green, Hicok said.

“We were honored this year with four members of the ISU football team participating in the tournament this year. They also met with fans and signed autographs after the tournament. After supper a raffle and auction was conducted and led by auctioneer Zach Mussman.”

Hicok said the HCPOA doesn’t yet know how much was raised.

The combine with which Richardson collided was wider than the width of the lane it was in, according to a crash report from the Iowa State Patrol, and the left front tire on the combine was across the center line when Richardson’s vehicle collided with it.

Richardson started his law enforcement career with the Auburn, Nebraska, Police Department in 2007 and then joined the Sidney Police Department in 2011, according to a news release from the Iowa Department of Public Safety. In 2015, he became a deputy with the Fremont County Sheriff’s Office. Richardson also served many years with the Sidney and Percival fire.