AUGUSTA – About 100 law enforcement officers had a special companion as they marched to the State House on Thursday to salute colleagues who have died in service. With them was 8-year-old Jeromey Rancourt of Leeds, who marched with a group from the Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Department.

Wearing a suit, tie and an Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office baseball hat, he raised his hand to his forehead to salute all the fallen officers, but one in particular.

His father, Deputy David Rancourt, died from a heart attack Nov. 4, 2006, while diving for criminal evidence with five other members of the sheriff’s department dive team in the Androscoggin River.

Rancourt’s name was the 82nd to be added to the Maine Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Augusta. State officials and members of the Maine Chiefs of Police Association held their annual ceremony Thursday to honor police officers who died in service, and pay tribute to their families.

“Many of those whose names appear on this monument died protecting us from immediate harm,” Gov. John Baldacci said in his remarks. “Some were pursuing dangerous felons. Others were trying to keep innocent people out of harm’s way.”

Growing up, Rancourt wanted to be a man in uniform, according to his mother, Loretta Rancourt.

David had served in two wars during 20 years in the U.S. Army Reserves. He was a deputy with the Sheriff’s Department for 10 years.

Sheriff’s Department Capt. Raymond Lafrance served with Rancourt during this decade. He presented the family with a medallion during Thursday’s ceremonies.

“I can only say, myself and other officers of this department miss him very much,” Lafrance said.

He described Rancourt as dedicated and modest.

“He was easygoing and professional with a great sense of humor,” he added.

Rancourt’s wife, Dawn, and Jeromey smiled as they were greeted by hosts of people after the ceremony. Dawn Rancourt is expecting another child in June.

“It’s nice to know that he won’t be forgotten,” Dawn Rancourt said.

After speaking with the governor, Loretta Rancourt said the response had been overwhelming.

“I’m amazed at everything people have done for him,” she said.

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