The US Attorney’s Office in Md. says it’s a time to remember the work of all police officers.
Baltimore, Md (KM) From now until Saturday, May 16th, is National Police Week. US Attorney for Maryland Robert K. Hur says it’s a time to recognize the service and sacrifices of federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement officers around the country .
“I think all too often we take law enforcement for granted. . These are folks who are out there, putting themselves and their lives on the line every single day for public safety, and it’s particularly appropriate in this time of pandemic that we pause and say thanks to law enforcement for protecting us every day,” says Hur.
Part of this week included Peace Officers Memorial Day which is Wednesday, May 13th. Hur says last year, 89 police officers from all across the country died in the line of duty. “Every single one of those officers who was killed in the line of duty is one too many,” he says. “But this year, we particularly pause and remember Officer Kyle Olinger who was a member of the Montgomery County Police Department, who, in a traffic stop, was shot in the neck and paralyzed.”
That shooting occurred in 2003. Olinger died in 2019 from his injuries.
These officers will be honored, and their names added to the wall of the National Law Enforcement Memorial, during a candlelight vigil on Wednesday. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic where large public gatherings are prohibited, the ceremony will be live streamed on line at www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF) starting at 8:00 PM.
By Kevin McManus