Hoyer Remarks at National Peace Officers' Memorial Service
WASHINGTON, DC – Today on Peace Officers Memorial Day, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-5) delivered remarks at the 35th Annual National Peace Officers' Memorial Service. The event is one of several that takes place in the nation's Capital during National Police Week, which brings together tens of thousands of law enforcement officers and survivors from police departments across the country. Below are his remarks as prepared for delivery:
"Lord, I ask for courage. Courage to face and conquer my own fears. Courage to take me where others will not go. I ask for strength. Strength of body to protect others. Strength of spirit to lead others. I ask for dedication. Dedication to my job, to do it well. Dedication to my community to keep it safe. Give me, Lord, concern for others who trust me and compassion for those who need me.
"These are the words of the police officer's prayer.
"Today we pay tribute to those who were courageous. We pay tribute to those who were strong in protecting and leading us. We pay tribute to those who were dedicated in serving us. And we pay tribute to those whose concern and compassion led them to give all they had for those who needed them.
"We gather each May to remember the fallen heroes of law enforcement from across our country, filled with pride in them and our hearts heavy with grief for their families.
"These men and women who gave their lives were concerned for us, and the well-being of their loved ones must now be our concern. They dedicated their lives to the work of watching over us. Now it is for us to watch over those they have left behind.
"From their strength of character we must draw strength to ensure that justice is always served. And from their courage in conquering their fears, let us be empowered to overcome our own.
"I'm honored to be here in the company of so many dedicated, courageous, and decorated law enforcement officers and in the presence of the families of the fallen. I've been proud to work with my colleagues in Congress to ensure that police departments have the tools they need to do their jobs safely and effectively. And I've been proud to stand up for the families of those we've lost in the line of duty, so that they can receive the benefits, support, and recognition they deserve.
"I've worked closely with law enforcement agencies and the Fraternal Order of Police in Maryland's Fifth District over the years, and I know that the pain we feel when we lose an officer in our communities is the same felt in districts around the country.
"I've been to too many funerals, comforted too many spouses, parents, and children in those difficult moments.
"Just a few weeks ago, I attended the funeral for a young detective from the Prince George's County Police Department, Officer First Class Jacai Colson. He was 28 years old and died in the line of duty.
"Today, we remember him and all of his brother and sister officers who, ever courageous, ever strong, ever dedicated, and ever concerned, now keep watch over us from afar as they did while on earth.
"And we rededicate ourselves to the mission of supporting the families of the fallen, which is forever our charge.