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by Sheriff Jim Coats

Nearly 45 years ago President John F. Kennedy signed a law designating May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day.  Each year on this date we remember the sacrifice made by law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty nationwide.  The calendar week, beginning on Sunday, which includes May 15 has become known as National Police Week.

For the past 20 years a Law Enforcement Memorial Service has been held in Pinellas County during National Police Week.  The service features a roll call of the 20 law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty in Pinellas County since 1905.   These fallen officers are also recognized during the ceremony by a wreath laying, a 21-gun-salute and the playing of “Taps.”

This year the Pinellas County Law Enforcement Memorial Service will be held at the Memorial Park, located just west of the Sheriff’s Office at 10750 Ulmerton Road in Largo beginning at 10 a.m. on Wed., May 14.  Representatives from local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies attend this ceremony, and it is open to the public.