The names of 22,217 men and women are etched into the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C. This year, 307 names are being added to the memorial as part of National Police Week, an annual observance dating back to 1962.
In Canada, law enforcement officers are participating in activities to mark Police Week, an annual observance dating back to 1970. The week coincides with the internationally recognized Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15.
The observances provide an opportunity for us to thank all law enforcement officers for their heroism and service above self. As a tribute to those who serve and protect us, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to the brave men and women who work in the U.S. and Canada as:
- Police officers
- Peace officers
- Constables
- Sheriffs and deputies
- Royal Canadian Mounted Police
- Highway patrol officers
- Border patrol agents
- Correctional officers
- Fish and game officers
- Canada Post
- Parliamentary Protective Service
- Canadian Security Intelligence Service
- U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents
- U.S. Marshals and deputy marshals
- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) agents
- Bureau of Diplomatic Security special agents
- Department of Homeland Security agents
- Immigration inspectors
- Customs inspectors
- Federal air marshals
- U.S. Secret Service special agents
- U.S. Secret Service uniformed officers
The stress law enforcement officers experience daily can’t be comprehended by most citizens. Television shows often make your profession seem glamourous, but we know the dangers you face aren’t fictional.
Despite the dangers, you bring a servant’s heart into the daily roll call. Your bravery allows us to live, work, and thrive in cities, counties, and states from sea to shining sea.
Giving back at home
Despite the stresses of the job, you still find time to give back to your communities in ways big and small, like:
- Working with senior citizens
- Raising money through charity sporting events
- Giving back to families during the holidays
Most recently, during the COVID-19 pandemic, you’ve offered encouragement to those who are isolated, and you’ve also volunteered at facilities where patients are being treated. You’re quick to educate us about the dangers posed by other people. You even go above and beyond to help community members who aren’t human.
You’re still a favorite at school career days, and you volunteer your time providing security and traffic control to churches. You help the business community by checking for unlocked doors after hours.
We know you’re doing a dangerous job. We also know your sincere passion to serve outweighs the inherent dangers you face. Our appreciation for all law enforcement officers is just as sincere, and we thank you this week and every week for what you do.
You are the strongest threads in the fabric of North America. Thank you for holding us together.
