Memorial service held to honor Greensboro Police Officer Michael Horan

A funeral service was held Thursday to honor the life and legacy of Greensboro police officer Michael Horan, who was killed in the line of duty in December.

Friends, family and local officials gathered at Westover Church to share their memories of him and his impact on the community. Greensboro Officer Tiesha Mercer said Horan was the epitome of what it meant to be a partner and squad mate.

"In the heat of every call I could count on looking up and seeing him right there beside me ready to go to work," she said. "I'll miss you, buddy. You were my protector for so many years, and I will forever love you for that."

Police Chief John Thompson said it was Horan's calling to serve, but nothing mattered more to him than his family.

"Officer Horan knew the value of togetherness, of being present for the people who mattered most, and he embodied this every single day," Thompson said.

Horan joined the U.S. Coast Guard in 2000 before later becoming a part of the Greensboro Police Department in 2017. Thompson said his legacy is one of love and service.