A Hero Laid to Rest

Indianapolis Police laid to rest one of its own, Thursday.

Officer Rod Bradway was remembered for his courage and compassion.

An American flag draped from the rafters of Bankers Life Fieldhouse, hanging above the casket a man Gov. Mike Pence calls a hero.

"On behalf of all the people of Indiana, it is my solemn duty to say that this is a time for all of Indiana to mourn," said Pence, "to mourn the passing of a husband, a father, a hero to us all."

Pence was among 5,000 mourners, including police officers from all over the country who came to say goodbye at Bradway’s funeral.

Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard says the 41-year-old, five-year IMPD veteran left a mark on the city that will never be forgotten.

"We honor officer Bradway and his family for the sacrifices that they have made for all of us," said Ballard.  "No one in this city will ever wonder whether Officer Bradway made a difference."

Bradway was remembered as a family man who loved pets and diving, and as a man willing to give his life to save someone he didn’t know.

"In kicking down the door he did something equally as great, he symbolically kicked down the door of anger," said IMPD Chief Rick Hite.  "He kicked down the door of hatred. He kicked down the door of pain.  He kicked down the door of fear.  He kicked down the door of dispare."

"While at the same time Rod opened the door for peace.  He opened the door of life.  He opened the door of trust.  He opened the door of honor.  He opened the door of love.  He opened the door of legacy."

Bradway was shot and killed last week after rushing into an apartment to save a woman and child who were being held hostage.

"This magnificent act of bravery and human kindness allows a mother to continue to nurture and raise a child," said Hite. 

Director of Public Safety Troy Riggs vowed to Bradway's family that his courage and dedication will live forever.

"I can assure you on behalf of the men and women of IMPD, the thin blue line of Indianapolis, that we will never forget his service and we will continue to fight the good fight in his honor."

Bradway is survived by a wife and two children. He was laid to rest at Crown Hill Cemetery next to fellow fallen officer David Moore who was killed in the line of duty in 2011.