DOCJT, KLEMF Remember the Fallen During National Police Week
For 20 years, the Department of Criminal Justice Training and Kentucky Law Enforcement Memorial Foundation have hosted an annual memorial ceremony to honor the lives and families of officers who have died in the line of duty. While we are unable to host the ceremony at this time because of COVID-19, we will not allow these brave individuals to be forgotten. Please read the following words from members of the Justice and Public Safety Cabinet and the KLEMF board of directors, and hear from DOCJT Commissioner Nicolai Jilek in the video.
“This week we join together in honoring the thousands of fallen men and women heroes and recognizing those who continue to serve in their honor. These brave men and women put others before self. They make our communities stronger, our streets safer, and our nation more secure. They are the best of us. They are our peacemakers. In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation which designated May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which that date falls as Police Week. I ask you to join me in remembering the fallen, and their families, who have paid the ultimate sacrifice to protect and serve our communities.”
“Every year in May and specifically on May 15, we pause to recognize the brave men and women who have answered the call to serve and protect our communities. As a former officer, a retired Chief of Police and Public Safety Commissioner for Lexington, KY, I have seen firsthand the selfless sacrifice of these brave men and women who have chosen to wear the badge that places them in dangerous and unpredictable situations. I have also experienced the loss of colleagues and an officer whose life was taken in the line of duty when I was Chief. Join me in honoring the fallen, praying for their families and recognizing generations of brave and courageous men and women who continue to serve.”
“We hope that laying this wreath today, during Police Memorial week, will honor our fallen even in the midst of this crisis.”
“Even though our remembrance today was smaller and simpler than in past years, the purpose remained the same: to honor and remember those we have lost and to offer a prayer for their families and loved ones. ”