2024 House Resolution 260

Whereas, In 1962, President Kennedy proclaimed May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the calendar week in which May 15 falls as National Police Week. Established by a joint resolution of Congress in 1962, National Police Week pays special recognition to those law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others; and

Whereas, There are more than 800,000 law enforcement officers serving in communities across the United States, including the approximately 17,000 full-time uniformed police officers in Michigan. These dedicated individuals serve in more than six hundred state, county, and local departments; and

Whereas, Members of law enforcement deserve the appreciation and respect of the people of Michigan for the merit, dignity, bravery, and reliability they exhibit each and every day. We must also honor the sacrifices made by families of police officers, as each day they must face constant fear as their loved one works to protect us; and

Whereas, In 2023 alone, 136 law enforcement officers were killed in the line of duty across the country. The names of these dedicated public servants are engraved on the walls of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C.; and

Whereas, Michigan’s fallen officers will never be forgotten, nor will their service to their respective communities. By choosing to commit themselves to law enforcement, these brave individuals answered the call for service and willingly put their lives in jeopardy. We commend them for recognizing service as a noble career, and protecting the public safety; and

Whereas, Michigan citizens have turned to members of law enforcement for assistance and support in times of distress, whether they are coping with a personal crisis, or struggling through civil disorder or a natural disaster. Our communities rely on these courageous individuals when it is difficult to stand on our own, and we are indebted to the unwavering public service of our local and state police. We are indeed fortunate and grateful for the contributions of law enforcement officers to the people of this state; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare May 12-18, 2024, as Police Week in the state of Michigan. We publicly salute the service of law enforcement officers in our state and nation and honor police who place their lives on the line for the safety and security of their communities.