In 1962, Congress, by Joint Resolution, created Peace Officers Memorial Day, and designated May 15 each year as the day to honor fallen Law Enforcement Officers throughout our country. The week encompassing May 15 was designated as Police Week for the purpose of memorializing those who have been lost defending and protecting ourselves and our families. In 2012, 127 Law Enforcement Officers lost their lives and in 2013 there have already been 40 deaths across this country. At each candle light vigil, each agency memorial, and each organized event this week, there will be families of slain officers who are being thanked for the sacrifice their sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, fathers and mothers made protecting us. Their family members who died in the line of duty are present in memory and spirit. Please take a moment this week to remember the sacrifices of all Law Enforcement Officers…all too often, the ultimate sacrifice.
– Larry Justham, Assistant State Attorney 20th Judicial Circuit