U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Southern West Virginia issued the following announcement on May 16.
United States Attorney Mike Stuart recognized the service and sacrifice of federal, state, and local police officers at the annual memorial ceremony hosted by the Huntington Police Department and the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Gold Star Lodge 65.
In October 1962, Congress enacted a joint resolution, which the President signed, declaring May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. The resolution also created National Police Week as an annual tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice, which is being observed this year from Sunday, May 12 to Saturday, May 18, 2019. During Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of police officers from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment in keeping our communities safe.
Last year, 158 law enforcement officers lost their lives in the line of duty. That is 158 too many. On May 13, 2019, Attorney General William Barr honored the men and women of law enforcement and their families at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund Candlelight Vigil. The names of all fallen officers nationwide were formally dedicated on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, during the 31st Annual Candlelight Vigil. The Candlelight Vigil is one of many commemorative events that take place in the nation’s capital during National Police Week 2019.
“Thank you. Thank you for all you do every single day to keep us safe,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Since becoming United States Attorney, with every passing day I become more and more appreciative of the work performed by federal, state, and local law enforcement, who often face uncertain and dangerous situations without question and without expectation of thanks. The brave men and women in law enforcement work tirelessly to protect our families and our communities, and most often do so without commensurate pay. That is why I was extremely honored to be the guest speaker at Huntington’s annual law enforcement officers memorial service to remind our first responders that they have my unwavering support and appreciation. I will always back the blue.”
Original source can be found here.