In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation which designated May 15th as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which that date falls as Police Week. The dates were set aside to remember and honor all peace officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice and all who continue to serve us on a daily basis. This year, National Police Week will officially occur May 9-15, 2021.

The last year has been very difficult and challenging for the brave men and women who serve in the law enforcement profession. In addition to the COVID-19 crisis, recent events around the country, in both urban and rural communities, have highlighted the importance of building collaborative relationships between agencies with law enforcement responsibilities and the public we serve. I want to take this time to acknowledge the great work being performed by Forest Service LEI personnel in this area on a daily basis. As the nation reflects on the sacrifices of the men and women who protect our nation, it is my sincere hope that all law enforcement professionals and the public we serve continue to work together to ensure that the communities we all care about are safe.

In 2020, 295 brave men and women lost their lives in the line of duty, and 182 of those deaths were related to COVID-19. As we reflect during this week and honor those we have lost, we should remember that these tragedies affect many people—family, friends, coworkers and countless others. I ask you to take a moment to honor them as well.

In our history, eight U.S. Forest Service officers have been killed serving our agency: Jason Crisp, Christopher Upton, Kristine Fairbanks, Michael Staples, Stephen Bowman, Brent Jacobson, Harmon Schwoob and Rudolph E. Mellenthin. These eight officers and K-9 Maros are recognized at the National Law Enforcement Officers’ Memorial in Washington, D.C. Information about each officer can be accessed online at U.S. Forest Service Fallen Officers.

Like last year, many Police Week events that usually bring us together in Washington, D.C., to honor our fallen officers will happen virtually. Social distancing measures made necessary by the COVID-19 crisis have resulted in the postponement of public ceremonies and events that would normally occur this week. In-person events are planned for Oct. 13-17, 2021, that will offer the same respect, honor, remembrance and community support as Police Week.

I would like to share this link to the 33rd Annual Candlelight Vigil, which will be held virtually.  This will be a gathering of survivors and supporters as it first was in 1982 at Senate Park in Washington, D.C., when approximately 120 people gathered to remember how these officers had bravely lived their lives.

This year's wreath laying ceremony can be viewed online. It was held May 12 at 11 a.m. at the Department of Interior.

Please take time to remember our fallen officers who gave their lives serving the public and protecting America’s natural resources. Also, please take time to think about all of the police officers across our country and in our communities who continue to serve for the good of the people and stand in harm’s way every day.