Remembering Peace Officers' Memorial Week 2016
In 1962, President John F. Kennedy designated May 15th as Peace Officers’ Memorial Day, and the calendar week in which May 15th falls as National Police Week. Joined by Congress, President Kennedy signed a proclamation in which the United States still honors to this day. National Police week pays special recognition to those Law Enforcement Officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others. The Buena Park Police Department was recognized this month by City Council with a City Proclamation at the May 10th City Council Meeting. Nationally, a Presidential Proclamation was also presented by the White House to all Law Enforcement Agencies on May 13, 2016:
Table of Honor
The hats of our heroes on the table symbolize a brave life that made the ultimate sacrifice.
The table cloth is white, symbolizing the purity of their intentions to respond to their Country’s and Community’s call to arms – so that their children could remain free.
The lone candle symbolizes the frailty of an officer alone on the street, standing up against his oppressors.
The black ribbon on the candle reminds us of those who will not be coming home.
The single rose reminds us of the loved ones our comrades in arms left behind.
A slice of lemon is on the bread plate to remind us of their bitter fate.
There is salt on the plate, symbolic of the family’s tears as they mourn the loss of a loved one.
The glasses are inverted. They cannot toast with us today.
The Bible represents the strength gained through faith to sustain those lost.
As we look upon this empty table, do not remember ghosts from the past, remember our brothers and sisters. Remember those whom we depend on. They depend on us to bring them honor and respect. Remember our friends. They are the ones we love – who loved life and freedom as we do.
Please honor and remember them.