05/15/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 05/15/2024 09:29
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Prim Escalona recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, and local law enforcement. The week will be observed Saturday, May 11 through Friday, May 17, 2024.
"As our country recognizes National Police Week, the Justice Department joins families and communities in remembering the members of the law enforcement community who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting the public," said Attorney General Merrick Garland. "Policing is difficult and dangerous, yet time and time again, law enforcement officers answer the call, showing up for their communities when they are needed the most. Their devotion to duty is matched only by that of their loved ones who make daily sacrifices to support them. The Justice Department is committed to doing everything in our power to help provide our law enforcement partners with the resources they need to carry out their noble work on behalf of the public."
"During Police Week, we honor the brave men and women in law enforcement for their selfless sacrifice to protect the citizens of the Northern District of Alabama," said U.S. Attorney Escalona. "I extend my sincere gratitude for your courage and dedication."
In 1962, President 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.
U.S. Attorney Escalona will attend the 9th Alabama Law Enforcement Memorial Service on May 17, 2024, at 11:00 am in Centennial Memorial Park in Anniston.
On Monday, May 13, the names of more than 280 officers killed in the line of duty in 2024 were read during a Candlelight Vigil. Those officers' names have been added to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. A recording of the livestream of this event can be watched at https://nleomf.org/memorial/programs/national-police-week-2024/candlelight-vigil/.
To learn more about National Police Week and the candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.