US Attorney Blader Recognizes Law Enforcement During National Police Week

MADISON, WIS. – United States Attorney Scott C. Blader recognized the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal police officers on the occasion of National Police Week, which is being observed this week.

In October 1962, Congress passed and President Kennedy signed a joint resolution declaring May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. The resolution also created National Police Week as an annual tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice. 

“During Police Week, our nation celebrates law enforcement officers for their dedication to keeping our communities safe, and recognizes those who have made the ultimate sacrifice,” said Mr. Blader, the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin.  “I want to acknowledge the work performed by these men and women and let them know they have our unwavering support and appreciation.”

According to statistics reported to the FBI, 106 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents in 2018, including two officers in Wisconsin – Officers Charles G. Irvine, Jr., and Michael J. Michalski of the Milwaukee Police Department.  Officer Irvine died on June 7, 2018, and Officer Michalski died on July 25, 2018.  The Milwaukee Police Department also suffered the loss of Officer Matthew J. Rittner on February 6, 2019. 

The names of all 106 fallen officers nationwide will be formally dedicated on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, during the 31st Annual Candlelight Vigil this evening.  The Candlelight Vigil is one of many commemorative events taking place in the nation’s capital during National Police Week 2019.  For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit www.policeweek.org. and to access the FBI’s 2018 Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report, please visit www.fbi.gov .