City honors Worcester officer who died trying to save drowning boy

WORCESTER, Mass. — Worcester sent one of their police officers off with a touching tribute. Officer Enmanuel “Manny” Familia was saluted by thousands of fellow officers from across the country as his body made its way to St John’s Church and then to the cemetery.

Full salute for fallen Officer Familia. pic.twitter.com/hMeFaT1jxL
— Robert Goulston (@rgoulston) June 10, 2021

The flag is being raised over Temple St so the funeral procession will travel underneath it as Officer Manny Familia’s casket is brought to St. John’s Church. @boston25 pic.twitter.com/EutUQUC4jS
— Kelly Sullivan (@ksullivannews) June 10, 2021

Lt. Gallagher from Arlington Police was with several of his officers. “It’s unreal,” said Lt Gallagher. Officer Adrian Beato came with his department from Nashua, New Hampshire. “Try and save someone’s life and he made the ultimate sacrifice to do that,” said Officer Beato.

The sea of blue had patches with all different names but they seemed to represent something much bigger than their own departments. Worcester County Sheriff Officer Brian Paradis just completed a class with Officer Familia.

“A real people person. Go out of his way to do anything for anyone. That’s why we are here today. A true hero,” said Officer Paradis.

The funeral mass was celebrated at St John’s Church in Worcester.

Officer Familia’s older and younger brothers gave the Eulogy. “He was the light of our family,” said one Elvin Familia.

Officer Familia died last Friday after he tried to rescue a 14-year-old boy who also drowned in Green Hill Pond. The 38-year-old leaves behind a wife of 22 years and two children.

“Putting on your uniform, leaving your house to go to a job that doesn’t guarantee you will be back home to your family. Makes you special,” said Elvin Familia.

While this brave officer has moved on -- his brothers assured the family of the boy Manny was trying to save -- they will continue the dedication to serving.

“We are very sorry for your loss, we feel your pain and share your emptiness. Our family is here to support you,” said Elvin Familia.

Some of the scenes from the procession for Officer Enmanuel “Manny” Familia in Worcester. @boston25 is live. pic.twitter.com/rlwumyfGaQ
— Robert Goulston (@rgoulston) June 10, 2021