U.S. Attorney Waldref Recognizes Police Week in Eastern Washington

Spokane, Washington - In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Waldref recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement.

“As our country recognizes National Police Week, the Justice Department joins families and communities in remembering the members of the law enforcement community who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting the public,” said Attorney General Merrick Garland.  “Policing is difficult and dangerous, yet time and time again, law enforcement officers answer the call, showing up for their communities when they are needed the most.  Their devotion to duty is matched only by that of their loved ones who make daily sacrifices to support them.  The Justice Department is committed to doing everything in our power to help provide our law enforcement partners with the resources they need to carry out their noble work on behalf of the public.”

U.S. Attorney Vanessa R. Waldref joined the Attorney General in thanking law enforcement. “This week we take time to pause and express our gratitude and thanks for the dedication, loyalty, and commitment of federal, state, local and Tribal law enforcement officers in protecting and serving our communities. Every day, officers put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe and strong. We honor their courage, valor, service, and sacrifice.”

In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.  

 Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe.

On Monday, May 13, the names of more than 280 officers killed in the line of duty in 2024 who have been added to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial were read during a Candlelight Vigil. To view a recording of the livestream of this event, visit https://nleomf.org/memorial/programs/national-police-week-2024/candlelight-vigil/