City of Marysville police, elected officials and staff paid respects to fallen law enforcement officials on May 15, proclaimed Peace Officer Memorial Day, during National Police Week.
Mayor Dennis Kendall reminded those present at the public tribute that members in Marysvilles law enforcement agency play an essential role in safeguarding the rights and freedoms of Marysville citizens, and unceasingly provide a vital public service.
Police Chief Rick Smith, who served in two different law enforcement agencies that last their own before taking the chiefs helm in Marysville, emphasized that officers recognize every day that their duty to serve carries responsibilities, hazards and sacrifice in their desire to safeguard life and property, and protect citizens against violence and disorder. Kendall and Smith said the memorial day and police week are also recognized as a symbol that we stand with the families of survivors who preserve the memories of their departed loved ones in law enforcement who gave their lives in the line of duty.
A few statistics below from a national law enforcement agency:
2006 145 Peace Officers died in the line of duty across the U.S. The list included three brave officers in Washington state, a fallen police officer in Brier, a Seattle Police Officer, and a King County Sheriffs Deputy.
2007 to present 65 Officers have given their lives in the performance of their duties.
For both years, a majority of these deaths were either under dangerous circumstances that involved gunfire, or were traffic-related.