As the Commonwealth observes National Police Week, the Glasgow Police Department and the Barren County Sheriff’s Office stand at the forefront, honoring the dedication and sacrifice of law enforcement officers across the country.
National Police Week, recognized annually from May 15th to May 21st, pays tribute to law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty and acknowledges the service and commitment of those who continue to protect and serve their communities.
Glasgow Police Chief, Guy Howie, and Barren County Sheriff Kent Keen both spoke to WCLU about the importance of spotlighting law enforcement officers.
Keen began with talking about his staff and how connected his deputies were with the community they have sworn to protect.
Howie commented on the responsibility that a person shoulders when entering into a law enforcement career and also offered a bit of history about the origins of police week.
In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week containing that date as Police Week.
Today, tens of thousands of law enforcement officers from around the globe converge on Washington, D.C., to participate in numerous events honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
The Memorial Service, which began in 1982 with a modest gathering of approximately 120 survivors and supporters in Senate Park, has evolved into a major annual event.
Now widely known as National Police Week, it draws thousands of survivors and law enforcement officers to the nation’s capital each year, highlighting the enduring respect and remembrance for fallen officers.
While this week celebrates the brave men and women in blue (or brown), it also draws attention to officers and deputies that have fallen in the line duty.
Conversation took on a somber tone as Howie remembered the losses of last year and pointed to a spreading threat to officers’ wellbeing.
In addition to honoring fallen officers, National Police Week provides an opportunity for law enforcement agencies to engage with the public and foster positive relationships within the community.
As the nation reflects on the sacrifices of law enforcement officers during National Police Week, the Glasgow Police Department and the Barren County Sheriff’s Office stand united in their commitment to serving and protecting their communities, ensuring that the legacy of fallen officers is never forgotten.
