Virginia Police Week And Peace Officers Memorial Day
10/11/2021
WHEREAS, the safety and well-being of Virginians is important to the prosperity of Virginia’s families and communities; and
WHEREAS, in 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed the first proclamation recognizing May 15th as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which it falls as National Police Week; and
WHEREAS, police officers throughout our Commonwealth work tirelessly to protect and serve residents across the Commonwealth, enforce our laws, and keep our neighborhoods, schools, and families safe; and
WHEREAS, police officers report for duty aware of the sacrifices they may be called upon to make and risk their lives each and every day in order to safeguard the public and enforce the laws of the Commonwealth; and
WHEREAS, we reflect upon the selfless dedication and bravery of our local, state, and other public sector police, as our safety and well-being is promoted by their dedication to maintaining peace and security in our communities; and
WHEREAS, Virginia Police Week and Peace Officers Memorial Day are opportunities to honor officers who have fallen in the line of duty, and recognize the sacrifices made by the families of those officers and the families of those who continue to protect and serve our communities;
WHEREAS, celebrations will be held the week of October 11-17, 2021, to ensure opportunity for in-person attendance due to the COVID-19 pandemic; and
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Ralph S. Northam, do hereby recognize October 11-17, 2021, as VIRGINIA POLICE WEEK AND PEACE OFFICERS MEMORIAL DAY in our COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.