Nine decades after a Santa Maria police officer’s death in the line of duty, a ceremony Wednesday morning recognized the service and sacrifice of Robert McMichael. 

The annual Peace Officers’ Memorial Ceremony held in a parking lot at the Santa Maria Police Department noted the dozen fallen law enforcement officers from 2025 around the state. 

But Lt. Nathan Totorica also highlighted McMichael, who died in 1932 after being injured in a vehicle crash while he was on patrol. 

“Today we are reminded that the passage of time does not diminish the service, sacrifice, or duty,” Totorica said. 

The ceremony was especially meaningful since the day of remembrance recognized an overlooked fallen member of the agency, Totorica added.

“This is a special moment for our department and our community as we ensure that no hero is forgotten, and that every act of service in the line of duty is properly honored,” Totorica said. 

McMichael began working for the department Sept. 4, 1932. Weeks later while he received critical injuries when he was struck by a vehicle while conducting traffic enforcement in the city. He died Oct. 25, 1932 at the age of 46.

In addition to McMichael’s recognition Wednesday, he will be honored at the California Peace Officers Memorial in 2027. Officials also have requested federal recognition for McMichael. 

His granddaughter Berry Ann Eames, great-grandson Joseph Eames and great-grandson Bryce Eames, all Santa Maria Valley residents, attended the ceremony Wednesday. 

McMichael’s recognition marked the second line-of-duty death for the Santa Maria department. Officer Robert “Bob” Ramos died in 2003 at the age of 52 while donning his uniform and gear at home ahead of starting his shift. 

His handgun accidentally discharged as Ramos put the weapon in the holster, delivering a fatal shot. While he’s locally recognized as a fallen officer, there were disputes at the state and national level whether to recognize the loss as a line-of-duty death. 

Wednesday’s ceremony included participants and attendees from multiple law enforcement agencies from across the county, kicking off with a procession of vehicles and a helicopter flyover.

In front of the stage, a dozen photos of the state’s fallen law enforcement members from last year sat as the police chief read their names, agencies and dates they were killed. Members of local Explorer posts placed a single white rose as the chief noted each loss. 

“There is no greater act of courage than willingly stepping into danger so that others may live in safety. That is the calling of law enforcement and those we honor today answered that call with unwavering commitment,” Christopher Williams said. 

In addition to remembering the loss, Williams said, the event also noted their legacy they left behind.

“It lives on the departments they served, in the communities they protected and in the families who carry their memory forward,” he said.

“Their courage continues to inspire those who wear the badge today and those who will wear it tomorrow,” the chief added. “To the McMichael and Ramos family members here today, there is no words that can truly ever ease your loss. But I want you to know this, you are not alone.”