Law enforcement, loved ones bid farewell to Deputy Colt Allery

It was a day of tears, hugs and prayer Tuesday in Belcourt.

Thousands of law enforcement officers joined the family of Deputy Colt Allery in bidding farewell.

“I rolled up on the scene after it had taken place. I had a deputy come to me and say he didn't make it. I stand here to tell you today and I can tell you Colt Allery did make it. he's in god's house watching over us,” Rolette County Sheriff Gerald Medrud said.

“Colt was a kind soul. He had a warm heart, and he was a hard worker when it came to law enforcement,” Medrud said.

“He was happy to do it. A cheerful, smiling warrior. A cheerful presence in a profession that too often puts our officers in direct contact with the darker side of humanity. But simply put, Colt answered the call,” said Gov. Doug Burgum (R-N.D.).

“My brothers and sisters in law enforcement, God has called you by name to a heroic service to your neighbor,” said Fr. Jeff Eppler.

“As I stand here in this room, and I see law enforcement, fire rescue, EMS, I am here to tell you we are all part of... we're all part of a family. Colt Allery will always be part of our family,” Medrud said.

Roll call:

After the funeral, pallbearers carried Deputy Allery's casket outside of the college to begin the procession, followed by a 21-gun salute.

Early numbers indicate that at least 2,000 people attended Tuesday’s service, with 1,200 law enforcement officers from across the United States and Canada.

Allery leaves behind a fiancée and five children. He will be interred in the spring.