U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Southern West Virginia issued the following announcement on May 11.
In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Mike Stuart launched a public service announcement (PSA) that pays tribute to the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement. The National Police Week PSA message, which was attached, is airing this week.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security not be taken for granted.”
“The honorable men and women in law enforcement put their lives on the line every day for us. While we take this week to formally recognize their service, we must always remember and appreciate their sacrifices,” said U.S. Attorney Mike Stuart. “On behalf of all West Virginians, I say thank you. Thank you for putting the safety of our communities ahead of your own.”
In 1962, President John F. Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019.
Original source can be found here.