Written by Ace Martin
It is May 15th, and to most of us, that means we are halfway to June. But what many do not know is that this is a solemn day of remembrance within the Law Enforcement Community. In 1962, President John F. Kennedy proclaimed May 15th as “Peace Officers Memorial Day” and the calendar week in which May 15th falls, as “National Police Week.” Established by a joint resolution of Congress, this day of observance 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.
This year, J. King Real Estate has partnered with Loveland Coffee, The Haven, and Serve & Connect to honor those who proudly wear the badge and to bring about awareness of the life-threatening dangers that they face on a daily basis. The Haven is a safe place for men and women in law enforcement to find rest, peace, and a supportive community to help them process the stress and demands of their profession. The Haven exists to rescue officers, restore relationships, and rebuild community trust. Additionally, Serve & Connect is on a mission to foster positive change by connecting the Police with the community over their shared humanity and joint desire to make their communities safer, healthier, happier places to live. As a small token of our gratitude, this morning we met with members of our local Irmo Police Department to listen to their stories, thank them for their service, provide them with breakfast donated by Loveland Coffee, and remind them of the silent majority of Americans who support Law Enforcement and are forever grateful for their sacrifice.
This week, we can all show our support of the men and women in blue through small acts such as paying for their cup of coffee, turning on a blue light in your porch lamp, sending a brief thank you card to your local Police Department, wearing a blue ribbon, or by simply approaching an Officer, shaking their hand and thanking them for their service. Peace Officers Memorial Day is a heartfelt reminder that not all Heroes wear capes.
Photo Dignitaries: Irmo Police Chief Bobby Dale (rear left), Jason King, Broker/Owner of J. King Real Estate, Kim Dennis, Operations Manager of Serve & Connect (front center), Kevin Caldwell, Executive Director of The Haven (front 3rd from right), Ace Martin, Retired Pawtucket, RI Police Officer (front 2nd from right).
