Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda attended the Memorial Service for Police Officers and Contributors Who Lost Their Lives on Duty or in an Attempt to Assist the Police or Save Peoples' Lives held at a hotel in Tokyo.

The Memorial Service was intended for the repose of the souls of police officers who lost their lives on duty, and others who lost their lives while cooperating in police activities or in an attempt to save peoples' lives, since the establishment of the police system in 1874. This year will observe the 39th Memorial Ceremony. The Prime Minister offered a silent prayer and delivered a memorial address, and then offered a flower.

The Prime Minister said in his memorial address, "I pray for the repose of the souls of 41 police officers who lost their lives on duty, who are newly enshrined, as well as those who lost their lives in an attempt to save others' lives.
Police officers who were swallowed by a massive tsunami as they were helping people evacuate and rescuing people, police officers around the nation who unfortunately lost their lives while on patrol duties or training on the frontline, and those who plunged into water in an attempt to save lives of their friends or family at the cost of their own lives-the courage and lofty spirit these people have shown at the cost of their lives are a source of pride for our nation. On the other hand, my heart is filled with an immense grief when I think of the sorrow of those who have lost their beloved family members, and I express my heartfelt sympathies for them.
Carrying on their will, we will strive to realize a society with a sense of pride and hope that offers protection for the people against disaster and crime. I once again pray for the eternal repose of the souls of the dead, and for the peace of mind of the bereaved family members."