On the recordMay 12, 2010
this week marks National Police Week and the observance of National Peace Officers Memorial Day. I want to take this opportunity to remember the brave men and women of law enforcement who have made the ultimate sacrifice and gave their lives in the line of duty. Since the first recorded police death in 1792, there have been nearly 19,000 law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty. On average, one law enforcement officer is killed somewhere in the United States every 53 hours. There are more than 900,000 sworn law enforcement officers now serving in the United States, which is the highest figure ever. This year, 116 names will be added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial here in Washington, DC. We should remember that there are 116 families who grieve the loss of a loved one who gave their life to protect their community and keep their fellow citizens safe. The sacrifice of those brave officers is the price paid for living in open society where freedoms are guaranteed by our Nation's laws.
