UP Gazette

Rep. Beau LaFave (R-Iron Mountain) has been instrumental in getting May 10 through 16, 2020, to be declared Police Week in the state of Michigan.

This special recognition honors the dedication of men and women of law enforcement, recognizing their contributions. This tradition goes back to 1962 when President John F. Kennedy declared May 15 National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the calendar week of May 15 as National Police Week. 

This is the second year LaFave has led the House in creating a resolution that honors the nearly 19,000 full-time uniformed officers in the state. This is also a time to recognize those who have given their lives in the line of duty. 

“We owe a debt of gratitude to all of the men and women of law enforcement who put their lives on the line each and every day to ensure our safety and security -- especially those who have made the ultimate sacrifice,” LaFave -- who chairs the House Military, Veterans and Homeland Security Committee -- told Michigan House Republicans.

“No matter the circumstances, these brave individuals answer the call for service and willingly put their lives in jeopardy. Even in the most difficult times, such as the ongoing challenges we currently face due to COVID-19, we can always turn to our members of law enforcement for help. The actions demonstrated by members of law enforcement over the past several weeks is yet another reminder to never take the contributions of these courageous individuals for  granted.”

Last year, 133 officers gave their lives to protect the nation's citizens. Many more were assaulted in the line of duty. The names of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice are engraved at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C.

"I encourage Michigan residents to join me in thanking our law enforcement officers for the merit, dignity, bravery and reliability they exhibit through their daily service to our communities, state and country,” LaFave said, according to Michigan House Republicans. “For Michigan’s fallen officers, we will never  forget their service and sacrifices.”