Pete Domenici: “I commemorate the hard work and sacrifices made daily by law enforcement officers all across our great land. Many have…”

“I commemorate the hard work and sacrifices made daily by law enforcement officers all across our great land. Many have lost their lives in the line of duty so that our families and communities may remain safe. We must never forget those who have given their lives to protect us all. The annual celebration of Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week during the calendar week has its roots in Public Law 87- 726, which was signed into law on October 1, 1962 by President John F. Kennedy. Public Law 87-726 designated this day and week as a time for ``recognition of the service given by the men and women who, night and day, stand guard in our midst to protect us through enforcement of our laws.'' This law was later amended during the 103rd Congress as part of the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act in 1994 to order the United States flag on all Government buildings displayed at half-staff on May 15. Since the turn of the last century, more than 60 law enforcement officers have been killed in the line of duty in New Mexico. This year, among other activities, law enforcement officers from around the country honored the lives of three New Mexico police officers whose names were recently added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C. One occurred a very long time ago, and the two others just last year. Officer Michael R. King and Officer Richard W.…”