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President Donald Trump signed a proclamation Monday honoring Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week.
The annual tradition honors the lives of officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service.
“On Peace Officers Memorial Day and during Police Week, we honor our brave officers who serve on the front lines to protect our families, safeguard our communities, and shoulder a burden of responsibility that most Americans cannot fathom,” Trump’s proclamation stated.
“This week and always, we honor the courageous men and women serving in law enforcement and memorialize those who sacrificed their lives defending the thin blue line,” he added.
The president later added, “I stand in steadfast solidarity with those who defend our freedoms and the families who love and support them. We pray for those who grieve the fallen and pledge that their lives, legacies, and sacrifices will forever be remembered by our grateful Nation.”
According to Police Chief Magazine, “On October 1, 1962, U.S. President John F. Kennedy signed Public Law 87-726, a joint resolution of the 87th Congress, designating May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day in honor of federal, state, and municipal peace officers who have been killed or disabled in the line of duty. Each year, the calendar week in which May 15 falls is called Police Week.”
The outlet added, “In 1994, U.S. President William J. Clinton signed Public Law 103-322, a joint resolution of the 103rd Congress, directing that the U.S. flag be flown at half-staff on all government buildings on May 15.”
Several state leaders added their recognition of police week, including Virginia Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin.
“During Virginia Police Week we honor the brave men and women who keep our communities safe. Every day these law enforcement heroes confront danger and risk everything in the line of duty. Thank you for answering the call to protect and serve Virginians,” he stated.
Florida Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis added, “Every year in May, National Police Week serves as an important reminder of the bravery and dedication of law enforcement officers across the country. Florida thanks the men and women of law enforcement who keep our state safe at great personal sacrifice. We honor you this week, and we remember those courageous individuals who have fallen in the line of duty. Thank you for your service.”
