ESCONDIDO, Calif. — A special tribute for fallen San Diego Police Officer Jonathan “J..D” De Guzman took place Tuesday at the California Center for the Arts.
The tribute was part of the 5th Annual Honoring our Regions Heroes Award Program and Luncheon, put on by the North San Diego Business Chamber.
De Guzman’s wife and children accepted an award in his honor after he was killed in the line of duty in a Southcrest neighborhood at the end of July.
“I just want to say thank you to everyone who is always here for us and always checking up on us,” said De Guzman’s 17-year-old son, Jonathan De Guzman II.
San Diego Police Chief Shelly Zimmerman and his family were among 22 other honorees at the awards luncheon.
“It’s our duty to never forget, it’s our duty to always remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice,” Zimmerman said.
Officer De Guzman’s son says it’s been hard but they are pushing through together as a family.
“Ever since my dad passed it’s been overwhelming but in a good way. When things slow down it does feel kind of hard, but people like the San Diego Police Department and other people who fundraise for us, it just means a lot,” he said.
Donations to help the De Guzman family can be made to the SDPOA Widows and Orphans Fund. Under “Notes to Seller” please note “Jonathan De Guzman” to ensure the funds go to his family.
