May 15, 2001
(WASHINGON) - National Police Week is when all of us from across Law Enforcement sit back and reflect upon those of us who have given their lives for the safety and protection of our country. We remember friends, fellow officers and family members who have made the ultimate sacrifice and we salute those who continue to carry on the burden of protecting our citizens day after day.
Particularly in light of the recent riots in Cincinnati, racial profiling and the controversy surrounding many departments across the country, now more than ever, we must recognize the ultimate sacrifices that are made daily and the safety and stability that Law Enforcement grants our country. Already this year, officer deaths have increased by 20% from the same period last year. Law Enforcement is on the front line of a daily battle and this is the week that not only law enforcement, but the entire country must recognize and celebrate.
Last Sunday night 346 names were added to the National Law Enforcement Memorial located in Judiciary Square in Washington, DC. It is a moment that all of us within the Law Enforcement community should experience. As the candlelight spread across the thousands of officers, family members and law enforcement supporters gathered around the memorial, there was an awe-inspiring mix of sadness, solemn respect and recognition.
Each of these officers has made the ultimate sacrifice and each has a poignant story of dedication in the line of duty, which should be told. Three Police1.com members were inscribed on the wall this year: Aubrey Hawkins from TX, Sherry Lyons-Williams, from GA and William Giacomo from West Virginia. In honor of their sacrifices, Police1.com will be creating a special memorial section to tell their stories. We will also be working with the National Law Enforcement Officer’s Memorial Fund to find and catalog all officer deaths so that they can be recognized.
Police1.com strongly supports the National Law Enforcement Memorial and has donated $50,000 to support its operation and to support the construction of a National Law Enforcement Museum.