U.S. Attorney Richard W. Moore, Police Officer Tribute, Alabama 2020

Police Officer Tribute

In a somber tribute to the nation’s law enforcement officers, U.S. Attorney Richard W. Moore recognized the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement during National Police Week.

Moore’s sentiments echoed those of Attorney General William P. Barr, who praised the men and women in blue for their dedication to public service and their unwavering commitment to protecting the nation’s communities.

“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”

According to the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019, including six officers here in the State of Alabama as a result of felonious incidents. Thus far in 2020, twenty law enforcement officers have been feloniously killed, compared to sixteen killed through May 5 of last year. Of the twenty officers killed this year, four were victims of an ambush, and one was the victim of an unprovoked attack.

The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 PM (EDT). The online event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF

In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.

Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.

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