LAFOLLETTE, TN (WLAF) – National Police Week is May 9 -15, with the 15th designated as Peace Officer’s Memorial Day.

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy declared May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day as a special tribute to law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty. “Police week was established as a time to honor all law enforcement and corrections officers and reflect on the dedication and commitment to the safety of our citizens.”

Campbell County’s local police chiefs and sheriff Robbie Goins said they were “grateful” for all their officers and deputies serving the county. 

According to Jacksboro Police Chief Jeremy Goins, “National Police Week is to remember the fallen officers and to show appreciation to those that continue to serve on the front line every day. They sacrifice so much to keep our citizens safe. During National Police Week, I ask you to remember them, but I ask you to remember them every day.” 

LaFollette Police Chief Bill Roehl said he was grateful there is a designation to honor all law enforcement. “These men and women put their uniforms on every day to serve their community. They put their lives on the line to make it a better place for everyone. We are fortunate to have the law enforcement we do in this county,” Roehl said.

Campbell County Sheriff Robbie Goins said the county had some of the best and hardest working law enforcement officers. “These dedicated law officers work really hard at what they do and they do it for their community.  I’m thankful for the work these men and women do every day. It’s about helping people. There is a lot of behind the scenes work that goes into it. I’m grateful for everyone here at the sheriff’s department and law enforcement through out the county,” Goins said.    

Caryville Police Chief Brian Keeton said officers are working under some very “trying times.” “I pray that while police officers are keeping our communities safe, they keep themselves safe. May all officers return home unharmed at the end of each day. To my guys at Caryville and to all police officers, I truly appreciate you and thank you for all you do.”

National Police Week will be commemorated with virtual events that can be viewed from anywhere in the world. From May 9–15, the National Law Enforcement Memorial and Museum will deliver programs to keep current officers safe and healthy, as well as ceremonies to honor those fallen officers whose names have been recently added to the Memorial.

The 33rd Annual Candlelight Vigil, happened virtually last night.

For more information about events, visit the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 05/14/2021-6AM)

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