Burns resolution designates ‘National Police Week’ in Pa.
‘Police Officers Memorial Day’ also highlighted
Rep. Frank Burns May 2, 2018 | 12:28 PM
HARRISBURG, May 2 – State Rep. Frank Burns’ resolution designating May 13 through 19 as “National Police Week” and May 15 as “Police Officers Memorial Day” in Pennsylvania was unanimously adopted by the House today.
Burns, D-Cambria, said he introduced H.R. 850 to remind all Pennsylvanians of the critical role police officers perform in keeping order in a nation governed by laws.
“The jobs they perform are increasingly fraught with danger and disrespect, to the point where every day bodily injury or death is a real concern,” said Burns, chairman of the legislature’s Blue Lives Matter Caucus. “I believe most law-abiding citizens – and there are many – truly appreciate the professionalism and braveness of the vast majority of police officers.”
Burns said the roots of his resolution trace to 1962, when President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15 as “Peace Officers Memorial Day” and the week on which that date fell as “Police Week.”
In 2018, Burns said tens of thousands of law enforcement officers from around the world will participate in numerous events to honor those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice while in police service.
Also, continuing a tradition that began in 1982, Burns said a memorial service will be held in Senate Park in Washington, D.C.
Burns said it is important for all citizens to be aware of the duties, responsibilities, hazards and sacrifices of those serving in law enforcement agencies.
“For their part, these men and women recognize their duty to serve the people by safeguarding life and property, by protecting them against violence and disorder, and by protecting the innocent against deception and the weak against oppression,” Burns said.