On Friday, May 4, 2007, the city of Portsmouth held a ceremony to honor the law enforcement peace officers and employees that died in the line of duty at its High St. Landing.  Hampton Roads, the local NOBLE chapter, provided a wreath in honor of those fallen officers officials. 

Along with the other valiant sacrifices, they honored Patrolman John Wilson, the first black officer slain in Portsmouth. Patrolman Wilson was shot and killed during a political rally at High and Court Streets. Patrolman Wilson is believed to be one of the first black police officers to serve in the United States and one of the first black police officers ever killed in the line of duty. 

  During the ceremony the city of Portsmouth acknowledged NOBLE's past President Len Cooke and VP Juanita Waters as well as thanking NOBLE for its participation.  Hampton Roads Chapter President Rudy Burwell and Region II Treasurer/Special Assistant Ellis E. Johnson II also attended.