Last night in honor of National Peace Officers Memorial Day and in recognition of National Police Week, the White House was bathed in BLUE. Following the assassination of five Dallas police officers last year, FLEOA originated the request to President Obama to light the White House in blue in honor of all law enforcement officers.
"President Trump's action of lighting in blue the White House in visible support for law enforcement, coupled with his personal involvement in the wreath laying ceremony at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial sent a powerful message of support to the law enforcement community," said Catura. "The support of the President and his Administration is particularly important during these times of increasing animus towards law enforcement officials and dangers they face carrying out their duties protecting the public."
In 2016, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) reported 135 officer fatalities, a 10 percent increase over the 123 who died in the line of duty in 2015 and the highest total since 2011, when 177 officers made the ultimate sacrifice. Firearms-related incidents were the number one cause of death in 2016, with 64 officers shot and killed across the country. This represents a significant spike—56%—over the 41 officers killed by gunfire in 2015. Targeted assassinations accounted for 21 officers killed in the line of duty - a 163% increase over 2015.
"These brave individuals voluntarily raise their hand to swear an oath and put their lives between danger and our democracy. These actions are ones filled with selflessness, bravery and courage," Catura stated.
FLEOA salutes all law enforcement officers and asks that we not forget the families left behind and their legacy which is inscribed in the NLEOMF Memorial walls "In Valor - there is Hope!"
