A popular Dunedin Constable will finally be recognised by police today, almost 80 years on from his death.

Today marks Police Remembrance Day, which is intended to honour the 72 police officers and staff who have died on duty, or as a result of duty.

Three new plaques recognising the efforts of three police officers killed on duty are set to be unveiled at the national police college in Porirua today.

One man being honoured is Constable James Butler, who was kicked several times by a man he arrested on Christmas Day, 1937. The 29-year-old died in Hospital just over a week later.

He was eventually laid to rest on the fifth of January, 1938, beside his father John at the Waipukurau Cemetery.

Yesterday, Bernie Laracy, whose mother was Constable Butler's first cousin, was on hand at the family unveiling. He said it was a poignant time for his family.

"It was surprisingly emotional. I like to think I'm a hardened kiwi bloke, but it was surprisingly emotional I must say. It's the right thing to have been done."

Mr Laracy stumbled on articles about his distant relative when going through his late mother's personal belongings.

Eventually, a committee confirmed that Constable Butler would be recognised with a plaque this year, which Mr Laracy said was strangely satisfying.

He said his death was so long ago, but his remembrance is part of wider picture of honouring all fallen officers and staff.

The plaques will also commemorate the lives of Constable Louis Bidois and Detective Constable Ronald Hill.