DES MOINES – Hundreds of police cars from all over the state of Iowa, as well as dozens of out-of-town vehicles made their way to Glendale Cemetery on Monday. It’s the ultimate sign of respect among Sgt. Tony Beminio’s peers.
It was one of the more emotional and moving scenes that you’ll ever see. As police car after police car came down University Avenue to pay their last respects to Tony Beminio, you could get the sense that both the police and the citizens had a feeling of gratitude.
“It’s a horrible and devastating event to the families, and we just want them to know that we’re there for them,” said Pastor Arnette Pint of Windsor United Methodist Church.
“We couldn’t believe it. It was so senseless. Our hearts were broken I guess,” said Cathy Tandeski of Eldridge.
Community members, devastated by a cowardly act, gathered by the grave site of Sgt. Tony Beminio.
“Both shootings happened a mile and a half from where we lived, so it touches close to home, I guess,” said Ken Sherman.
All along the way, as each of those cars drove from the church to the cemetery, those signs of love and appreciation were available in abundance.
“I think it shows a lot of a support, and I think they need it right now. I think all of them are grieving,” said Tandeski.
And as they say good bye to a brother they loved dearly, they’re also receptive to the empathy from a community that’s standing with them.
“It’s probably a job that doesn’t get much appreciation,” said Sherman. “So, I hope that they think it’s a great thing.”
It really wasn’t just the departments standing for Sgt. Beminio, but really what stood out most of all, wasn’t just that they were standing together, but they were standing as one.
