PROVIDENCE — The Rhode Island Police Chiefs’ Association is honoring fallen officers from near and far during National Police Week this week.
National Police Week takes place this year from May 9-15 and is observed across the country as a way to honor local, state and federal law enforcement officers who have died or been disabled in the line of duty.
In honor of Peace Officers Memorial Day on Saturday, May 15, Police from across Rhode Island will join agencies nationwide in flying its flags at half-staff to honor officers who have given their lives in service to their communities.
“There have been many brave and dedicated police officers from across Rhode Island who have lost their lives in the line of duty, and we honor and remember them year-round, including during National Police Week this week,” RIPCA Executive Director Sidney Wordell said. “These men and women gave back to their communities in so many ways, and we remember them for everything they did both while serving in an official capacity and beyond.”
Every year, between 25,000-40,000 law enforcement officers from around the world would normally gather in Washington, D.C. to pay their respects during a number of planned events. Though this year’s in-person events are cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a candlelight vigil will be held virtually on Thursday, May 13 at 8 p.m. to memorialize those who sacrificed all for their communities.
A total of 362 officers were killed in the line of duty in 2020 and 119 have been killed so far in 2021.
“On behalf of the Rhode Island Police Chiefs’ Association, we not only remember those officers we have lost, but we also recognize the men and women of Rhode Island Law Enforcement for the sacrifices they make every day as they serve and protect their respective communities,” said RIPCA President Richard Ramsay. “Their dedication honors the memory of each of the officers who came before them, and we thank them for their continued service.”
“While we are not together for the traditional Police Week this May, and many of the events of Police Week have been postponed to October in the hope of being together in person, we still honor the brave men and women around the globe who made the ultimate sacrifice,” International Association of Chiefs of Police President Cynthia Renaud said in a statement. “Collectively as a profession we grieve with the families, the agencies and the communities of those brave officers who have given their lives in service of others.”
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