Police officers yesterday laid wreaths and paid tributes to three colleagues killed by Hurricane Fabian.

Constable Stephen Symons, P.C. Nicole O'Connor and Station Duty Officer, Gladys Saunders, were swept away on the Causeway on September 5, 2003.

Only the body of P.C. Symons was recovered, two days later on the oil docks of Ferry Reach.

Yesterday, members of the public joined officers for the fifth annual Remembrance Ride.

A Police escort accompanied dignitaries and a Bermuda Long Riders Motorcycle Club convoy as it travelled from City Hall to Kindley Field Park, where wreaths were laid at the Memorial Bench to the three officers and civilian Manuel Pacheco.

The convoy then proceeded to St. George's and turned on Ordnance Island before heading back to the Prospect Police Recreation Club for an official reception. In the grounds of the Rec Club, families and colleagues of the victims paid tribute, five years on.

Sherri Simmons, the former wife of P.C. Symons and mother of son Stephen, told The Royal Gazette: "The horror of what happened never really goes away, it was such a traumatic experience.

"But the fact they found Stephen's body is a bit of closure which helps tremendously. We are always cognisant that we are blessed in that respect.

"Today has been overwhelming, just to think the community cares and hasn't forgotten — that means so much to us."

Mrs. Simmons, of St. George's, told the reception: "It's at times like this that words can't express how thankful we are for the continued support of the Police family and all of its ancillary service, and the community as a whole."

She said that due to this support, her 13-year-old son had grown up to be "a great, wonderful, average child, despite having such a tragedy happen in his young life".

"Not a week goes past that someone from the Police Service doesn't ask how Stephen is doing, and we certainly appreciate that," she said.

The brother of SDO Gladys Saunders, Pastor Kevin Santucci, praised the community in coming together in support of the families left behind.

"We don't know what the future holds for this Island in the wake of storms but one thing we do know is we can make it if we work together," he said.

Linda Mienzer, an SDO at Southside, read a poem in tribute to her 'C Watch' colleagues, P.C. Symons and P.C. O'Connor, while Jonathan Smith, President of the September 5th Foundation, thanked the Bermuda Police Service and Bermuda Police Association for their continued support.

The September 5th Foundation is a charity which raises funds for post-secondary educational scholarships for the children of the victims. Mr. Smith, a former Police Commissioner, said: "There are four children who were affected by Hurricane Fabian and who stand to benefit. Our work will go on for a few years, as the eldest child is still a few years from university age."

Walter Roban, Junior Minister of Labour, Home Affairs and Housing, spoke at the reception on behalf of Minister David Burch, who is off-Island.

"Today provides all in attendance with an opportunity to share memories," said Mr. Roban. "It is important that we continue to support these families and surround them with our love and support.

"When moments of sadness come, I trust that our Heavenly Father will provide you with the strength and comfort through these difficult times."

Police Commissioner George Jackson said: "It is always a burden in people's hearts when they have to celebrate solemn occasions, but we can never forget our fallen colleagues."