Editor:
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.
National Police Week, May 13-19, was established as a way to recognize the service and sacrifice of U.S. law enforcement. It’s a time to honor officers both living and fallen for what they do and have done. I think it’s a week to express thanks to all of our men and women of law enforcement for their service to our communities. Especially to the sacrifice, and sometimes ultimate sacrifice, that they’ve given in the protection of peace.
Three names joined the dozens already on the Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Wall at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem last week. Eugene police Officer Chris Kilcullen was one on the wall. Sweet Home has one name on that wall – we want to keep it that way.
This week, Eugene police officers and Officer Chris Kilcullen’s family are traveling to Washington D.C., where Officer Kilcullen’s name will be added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial.
Two other Oregon law enforcement officers’ names were added to the memorial wall last week.
Oregon Department of Corrections Officer Buddy Ray Herron died Nov. 28, 2011 after he stopped to help a stranded motorist and was fatally stabbed.
Lake County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Samuel J. Lewis died shortly after being shot while he was guarding a prisoner in the Klamath Falls area in 1882.
During this coming week, I encourage you to thank a law enforcement officer for their work and to remember why they are out there … to protect and to serve!
Gina Riley
Community Services Officer
Sweet Home Police Department