Boston: Slain Uni Police Officer Remembered

A memorial service is being held for Sean Collier - a university police officer killed by the Boston Marathon bombing suspects.

Up to 10,000 Massachusetts Institute of Technology students, faculty and staff as well as law enforcement officials from across the US gathered at Wednesday's service at Briggs Field to pay solemn tribute to the campus officer.

Vice President Joe Biden, as well as members of Mr Collier's family, also attended the event which is not open to the public.

Mr Biden, who grew up in the same neighbourhood as the Collier family, said the tragedy had brought him to "tears" after relatives painted "a vivid picture" of their fallen loved one.

Vice President Jo Biden speaking at the memorial service

He told the congregation: "Of all the things I've read, no knowing Sean, what struck home the most to me was that a student was quoted as saying, 'he loved us and we loved him'. What a remarkable son, what a remarkable brother," he said.

To the wider policing community he said: "We owe you so much more than just honouring you on days of grief and celebration ... I salute, I admire what you do on behalf of all of us every day.

"Thank you for standing in line between our families and danger every solitary day."

The 27-year-old had only been in the job for a year when he was fatally shot in the dramatic manhunt for the suspects, three days after the twin blasts during the Boston Marathon.

Heartfelt tributes are being paid at the memorial service for Mr Collier

He was well-respected by his colleagues and was popular with students, and often went on hikes with the MIT student outing club.

MIT police chief John DiFava said: "What made Sean was good? There are many reasons. But I believe the most important is the fact that he was the same person in uniform that he was when he wasn't wearing the uniform.

"His care and compassion was genuine ... and because of his depth of character he was able to achieve a level of trust with people of all backgrounds that was truly remarkable.

"This was indeed a trait that would serve him well during his time at MIT.

MIT police chief John DiFava speaking at the private event

"I am sure his love of life and that mischievous grin added to his ability to connect with students."

He added: "Sean, we love you and we'll never forget you."

It follows a private funeral mass for Mr Collier which was held on Tuesday.

Sky's US correspondent Amanda Walker said: "He has been described as one of those guys who really looked at police work as a calling and someone who was 'born to be a police officer'."

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