AURORA - Four doves representing Aurora's fallen police officers fluttered against blowing winds above police headquarters Wednesday afternoon.

Released last, the dove symbolizing officer Doug -Byrne flew to join the flock.

"When I release the birds they will disappear from sight," said handler Rosa Bunn. "They continue to exist as they return to their loft. That's how it is with Doug."

More than 100 people gathered at Aurora's Fallen Officer Memorial Wednesday to remember Byrne who was described as a "brother in blue."

"If you were ever in a situation and had to dial 911, you would want Doug on your doorstep," Byrne's father, Donald, said before the memorial.

Community members from Aurora shared prayers for Byrne and his family at the public memorial. A total of 17 doves were released from the event.

"It is sad," said the Rev. Thom-as Mayes, of Living Water Christian Church. "The police department will have to review its policies on driving with sirens and responding to medical calls. This is the only good that will come from this death."

Byrne, 37, died early Monday morning after he was thrown from his car, which crashed near the 16000 block of East Sixth Avenue while trying to help a man suffering from a seizure.

Byrne may have misjudged the direction a car in front of him was heading, police officials said.

Police Chief Daniel Oates thanked the community for its support during this tragedy. He said people from around the country have been e-mailing and calling to send their sympathies to the police department.

Byrne grew up in Aurora and graduated from Gateway High School, where he played football.

"I am also an alum of Gateway High School and I always had that desire to work in my hometown," Aurora police Lt. Bob Self said. "I'm sure Doug had that same desire."

Byrne served in the Marine Corps during the Persian Gulf War in 1991 and soon after joined the Glendale Police Department. Byrne joined the Aurora police force in 2004.

" 'Protect and serve' was not just a slogan," said Donald Byrne who is retired from the Air Force. "It was how he (Doug) lived his life."

Byrne's funeral will be at 10 a.m. Friday at Heritage Christian Center, 9495 E. Florida Ave.

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