AHOSKIE –The Ahoskie Police Department participated in National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Week on Thursday with picnic at the park in Ahoskie.

Law enforcement officers from across the county attended to enjoy fellowship with other officers and take a few moments to relax and enjoy a good meal.

Ahoskie Police Chief Troy Fitzhugh organized the event and expressed thanks to the community and to local businesses for all they do to support local law enforcement officers.

The national week set aside to honor law enforcement officers started in 1962 when President John F. Kennedy proclaimed May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the calendar week in which May 15 falls, as National Police Week.

Established by a joint resolution of Congress in 1962, 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. According to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, there are currently more than 900,000 law enforcement officers putting their lives on the line for the safety and protection of others.

“They serve with valor and distinction – and with great success,” said Fitzhugh.

The APD Chief pointed to federal statistics showing violent and property crime rates in the United States are at historic lows, thanks in large measure to the dedicated service of the men and women of law enforcement.

“That protection comes at a price, however. Each year, there are approximately 60,000 assaults on law enforcement officers, resulting in nearly 16,000 injuries,” he said. “Over the last decade, an average of 146 officers a year have been killed in the line of duty. And throughout U.S. history, more than 20,000 law enforcement officers have made the ultimate sacrifice. That’s why celebrating Law Enforcement Memorial Week is so important to us. We celebrate those here, and remember those that have gone before us.’

Since the first known line-of-duty death in 1791, more than 20,000 U.S. law enforcement officers have made the ultimate sacrifice.

“The Memorial Fund serves as a nationwide clearinghouse of information and statistics on law enforcement line-of-duty deaths,” said Fitzhugh. “The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund is dedicated to honoring all of America’s law enforcement heroes, those who have died in the line of duty and those who continue to serve and protect.”