This week, Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett hosted a reception in honor of National Police Week honoring two fallen heroes from the U.S. Virgin Islands: Detective Delbert Phipps Jr. and Patrolman Lionel E. Issac. Both VIPD officers lost their lives in the line of duty and will be added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Wall.
“Their names will be forever engraved, and their integrity forever maintained,” said Congresswoman Plaskett. “Our men and women of the Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) give their full measure of devotion, their bravery, resilience and dedication, to perform their duties faithfully and make the ultimate sacrifice.”
Congresswoman Plaskett was joined by VIPD Commissioner Martinez, VIPD officers, and the family of Detective Phipps Jr. for the reception.
“While today is a solemn time for us, today is a good time to see my officers smiling and celebrate the lives of Detective Phipps and Patrolman Issac,” said Virgin Islands Police Department Commissioner, Ray Martinez. “This provides us and the Phipps family the opportunity to know that we are not alone. As much as it pains us for our loss, they will not be forgotten. Standing as a police commissioner, I couldn’t be more proud to be here, and pay homage to our brothers in arms.”
“I lost my son, Detective Phipps, on July 4, 2023. One of the worst days of my life,” said Denise Phipps, mother of fallen hero Detective Delbert Phipps Jr. “I am honored, and it feels a bit bittersweet as they remember and honor my son. What a joy and sadness to see that his name is there.”
