Each holiday season, remembrance takes on a quieter, more personal form for the Oklahoma Highway Patrol. This year, that remembrance led several troopers and family members to a graveside in Okmulgee to honor Trooper Larry Smith – badge number five – who was killed in the line of duty more than five decades ago.

The wreathing ceremony, part of a tradition that has grown in recent years, is rooted in a simple but weighty purpose: honoring sacrifice.

“Every holiday season we like to gather and just let them know that we value their dedication to the patrol and honor their sacrifice,” Trooper Foreman shared during the ceremony.

Trooper Smith graduated from the Oklahoma Highway Patrol Academy in 1970. Just one year later, on Jan. 29, 1971, he was killed while assisting a county unit on a burglary-in-progress call. According to remarks given at the graveside, another driver made a left turn in front of Smith’s patrol unit, causing a collision that claimed both lives.

“Even though Trooper Smith had only been on the force for one year, he’s still our brother,” the trooper said. “This is just to show our appreciation.”

The wreathing itself is part of a broader remembrance effort similar to Wreaths Across America, though those present noted the practice has been more visible locally for about five years. While larger ceremonies are often held at the Department of Public Safety complex in Oklahoma City, this gathering carried a more intimate weight-standing directly where Trooper Smith rests, surrounded by family.

Family members, including Smith’s surviving siblings and relatives, were present and expressed appreciation that his name and service continue to be remembered.

“It’s very nice they still remember and do that,” one family member said quietly after the ceremony.

Following the placement of the wreath, a poem titled “When I Don’t Come Home One Day” was read aloud. Its words reflected the realities of service, duty and loss-spoken not just for Trooper Smith, but for all who have fallen.

“When I don’t come home one day, please understand that my calling that day was to look evil straight in the eye and fight a battle and never be afraid to die,” the poem reads. “When I don’t come home one day, don’t be mad at the profession I chose, but instead, feel honored you were a part of it … make sure they continue to say my name and pray for me so I will never be forgotten.”

As photos were taken and quiet conversations followed, the meaning of the ceremony became clear: this moment was not about formality or recognition for those standing thereit was about honoring the memory of those who are at rest.

“This was more so for them, not for us,” Trooper Warren said, gesturing toward the family.

In a profession marked by risk and uncertainty, the wreath placed at Trooper Larry Smith’s grave served as a reminder that time does not erase sacrifice – and that remembrance, when carried faithfully, becomes a form of service itself.