National Peace Officers Week

(Pictured are George Caulder, Wes Far­rell, Tim Holt and William Bayer)

Local law enforcement officials paid respect to their fallen brethren Tuesday morning during a ceremony at the Lee County Sheriff’s Office. The memorial event was organized by Lee County sheriff’s officials however featured members from the Sanford Police Department, the Broadway Police Department, the North Carolina Highway Patrol and the Lee County Schools Special Police Force. This year marks the 27th year of National Peace Officers Week.

Every day, our Nation's dedicated law enforcement officers put themselves at risk to keep their fellow Americans safe. As we observe Peace Officers' Memorial Day and Police Week, we pay tribute to the courageous men and women who have lost their lives protecting us, and we honor all those who wear the badge and keep the peace.

The law enforcement officers of today carry on the long and proud tradition of service built by their predecessors. With valor and distinction, these citizens stand watch over us all and work hard to fight crime, violence, and terrorism in communities across America. We are a country built on the rule of law, and our Nation is grateful to the men and women who enforce those laws and uphold the fairness and peace we treasure.

Law enforcement officers deserve our appreciation for the work they do, and citizens fulfill an important civic responsibility by supporting their work to protect our communities. Through organizations like Citizen Corps, men and women are assisting their local police force, fire department, and neighborhood watch program. (More information about Citizen Corps volunteer opportunities can be found at citizencorps.gov.) We encourage all citizens to help fight crime in our community by volunteering and participating in crime prevention organizations. By working together, we can achieve a better and more secure future for our children and grandchildren.

On Peace Officers' Memorial Day and during Police Week, we honor the heroism of all our law enforcement officers, especially those who have given their lives so that others might live. They performed their jobs with extraordinary distinction, and a proud and grateful Nation will always remember their service and sacrifice. We ask God's blessings for the families and friends they left behind.

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy designated May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day, and the calendar week in which May 15 falls as National Police Week. Please visit this website to learn more about the history of this important day.

Click here to meet the Peace Officers that have given their lives for their communities.