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Every day throughout our nation, the brave men and women of the law enforcement community lay their lives on the line to ensure the continued safety and security of the American people. Their heroism is often overlooked and seldom praised; however, every May 15, and the week containing that day, we honor those who have served and sacrificed for our continued prosperity by commemorating National Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week.
As the tragic events of September 11, 2001, unfolded, the nation witnessed the true valor of our law enforcement officers and first responders. Without hesitation, they entered those buildings, faced those infernos, and were determined to save the lives of their fellow Americans. Who will ever forget the images of the heroic police officers and firefighters who risked everything to save people fleeing from the World Trade Center and the Pentagon on that fateful September morning?
However, it is important to emphasize that these courageous men and women risk life and limb every single day to ensure our continued prosperity and protection. They uphold our laws by fighting those who wish to break them. They defend us while we sleep, allowing us to rest easy. And they are the first to respond to emergencies, large or small. Unfortunately, some of our nation’s guardians lost their lives while shielding us from those who prey on the innocent or by tossing fear aside to throw themselves in harm’s way. Most of us could not imagine what it is like to get up in the morning and not be sure we will return that night. These heroes live that reality each day.
I believe that our nation’s finest citizens are the men and women serving in our military and the police officers, firefighters, and other first responders who put their lives on the line for the benefit of people they have never met. Their professionalism and commitment to protecting their fellow citizens and keeping our communities safe is a shining example of what is great about the United States.
In honor of National Police Week, I urge Americans across the country to take the time to thank local law enforcement, firefighters, and other first responders who have committed to protecting our nation and communities. We owe them a debt of gratitude for their service and their sacrifice.
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