CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Monday marks the beginning of National Police Week. In Charlotte, the week begins with honoring and remembering those who lost their lives in the line of duty.

Hundreds of Charlotte Mecklenburg Police officers along side sheriff’s deputies, all standing at attention in their dress uniforms filled the street outside of police headquarters Monday.

They were there to pay solemn tribute to Charlotte’s own, killed while preserving the peace.

In the nation’s history, more than 19,000 peace officers have died in the line of duty.

Each year, during Police Week, much of the focus is on keeping the memories of each of those lost alive.

This year, for Charlotte, the pain of loss is still fresh. The first anniversary of officers Sean Clark’s and John Shelton’s murder was only last month.

Their wives and children joined a growing group of family members that gather each year at the Peace Officer Memorial in Uptown.

As 21 shots rang out and a lone bugler sounded out a haunting rendition of taps, many fought to hold back the tears.

A simple prayer from CMPD Chaplain William Matevie gave some comfort and hope to families still very much missing a loved one.

“We know God to be just, and rejoice in the knowledge that one day we will be reunited with our loved ones forever,” he said.

After the brief memorial service, the huge formation of law enforcers, family, friends and well wishers marched through the streets of Charlotte to attend a church service a few blocks away.

There are many Police Week events planned locally, at the state level and nationally all week long.

The week culminates Friday at noon with a wreath laying outside of the U.S. Capitol in Washington D.C.

To see the video or look at a slideshow from Monday’s event in Charlotte, check the sidebar of this article.

There is also a link to WSOCTV.com’s complete coverage of the Shelton and Clark murders last year.