“In 2015 we lost 128 officers in the line of duty in the United States and already in 2016 we are at 34 lost”, said Chief Jim Blocker.
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The 14 officers who have died in Smith County’s history were honored, with officers and then family laying roses for them.
Four Hawaii Island officers killed in the line of duty will be honored during public events this week. Established by a resolution of Congress in 1962, National Police Week pays special recognition to the enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others.
This holiday was created in October 1, 1961 by President Kennedy when Congress asked to designate May 15 to honor peace officers. The 38-year-old married father of four was on morning patrol last August 28 when his department-issued motorcycle was struck by another motorist and dragged for several miles. Thousands of survivors and law enforcement officers take part in the series of events in Washington, DC, each year.
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Denver police officers gathered to honor their own during National Police Week on Thursday. Friday night’s candlelight vigil will include numerous additions to the wall from across the country including local Hamilton County Park Ranger, James Wallen.
