BOONE, Iowa—Sunday marked the beginning of this year’s National Police Week and Mayor Elijah Stines is taking the occasion to express his appreciation and respect for the city’s law enforcement officers.
“From the most senior leader to our newest officer, we can take pride in the dedication, professionalism and care that every employee of the Boone Police Department demonstrates each day on the job,” Stines said. “No matter how large or small a community is, no law enforcement officer knows that they will go home safely at the end of their shift. That sad reality was proven again last September in Algona when an officer was shot and killed on duty.”
Stines continued, “People often tell me how much they appreciate something one of our officers has done to help them out or resolve a problem. I share that respect and gratitude encourage everyone to take a moment or two this week to recognize the sacrifices that our law enforcement officers make to keep us safe – and to personally say thanks if you have an opportunity.”
Police Chief John Wiebold also expressed his appreciation for the hard work of his department’s members and acknowledged the dangers of law enforcement service.
“We’ve been blessed in our community that we’ve not lost an officer in the line of duty, but every man and woman on the Boone Police Department – like every law enforcement officer anywhere – knows that even the most seemingly routine call could be their last,” said Chief Wiebold. “Our officers train hard and work every day to keep our community safe. There are few, if any, higher callings than putting your own life on the line each day for others.”
National Police Week offers honor, remembrance, and peer support, while allowing law enforcement, survivors, and citizens to gather and pay homage to those who gave their lives in the line of duty.
President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation in 1962 that proclaims May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day. According to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial website, “The United States flag may be flown at half staff by presidential proclamation or by the state’s governor. By statue, the president is required each year to issue a proclamation requiring government buildings to half staff the flag and invite all the people of the U.S. to do so as well, on May 15, Peace Officer’s Memorial Day.”
Governor Kim Reynolds has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff from Friday morning and concluding on Saturday.
(contributed press release, City of Boone)
