Georgia’s top dignitaries, law enforcement from across the nation join DeKalb County in honoring fallen Officer David Rose

ATLANTA–ATLANTA – DeKalb County honored the life and legacy of Officer David Rose on Friday, Aug. 22. More than 1,500 community members, relatives, friends, colleagues, and dignitaries gathered at First Baptist Church of Atlanta for a public memorial. Law enforcement officers from across the nation attended, underscoring the deep respect and gratitude for Officer Rose’s service.

Distinguished guests at the memorial included Gov. Brian Kemp and First Lady Marty Kemp; U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia Theodore Hertzberg; elected officials from across DeKalb County and metro Atlanta; leadership at Emory University, including President Gregory L. Fenves; and leadership at the CDC, including Director Susan Monarez. A large group of CDC employees attended to honor the man many credit with saving lives during the Aug. 8 active shooter incident  at the CVS pharmacy, located at 520 Avenue Place in Atlanta, near the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at Emory University. Officer Rose was shot to death responding to the incident. 

The memorial service celebrated the lasting impact of Officer Rose, a 33-year-old former U.S. Marine, during his 11 months with the DeKalb County Police Department.

Interim Police Chief Gregory Padrick, Lead Instructor Sergeant Trey Jones, Police Chaplain Gregory Webb, and classmates, represented by Officer Tahlia Cruz, shared heartfelt memories, honoring his dedication, character, and courage. DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson and the Board of Commissioners presented a proclamation officially declaring Aug. 22, 2025, as Officer David Rose Day in DeKalb County.

DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson speaks at the Aug. 22 memorial service for DeKalb Police Officer David Rose. Video image grab: Dekalb County government.

To watch the video of the David Rose Memorial click on the image below:  

Officer Rose’s 6-year-old daughter was presented with the folded American flag, a symbol of her father’s service and sacrifice. Musical tributes included Denise Ann Malcolm performing Amazing Grace and Rise Up, lending a solemn and uplifting tone to the ceremony. A video tribute highlighted Officer Rose as a child, young man, and during his time in the police academy, celebrating the full arc of his life and service. Many attendees, including family members, wore blue in honor of Officer Rose and all law enforcement officers.

The ceremony concluded outside the sanctuary with a 21-gun salute, Taps, a flyover, and the final call, providing a moving and dignified farewell. The memorial not only honored Officer Rose’s bravery and dedication but also reflected the collective respect and admiration of a community united in remembrance. 

Officer Rose is survived by his expectant wife, two children, mother and brother.