WASHINGTON, May 14 (UPI) -- U.S. President Barack Obama praised public safety workers Monday and proclaimed Tuesday Peace Officers Memorial Day and this week Police Week.
"This week, we pay tribute to the thousands of men and women who serve us with extraordinary bravery, and we remember the heroes who have laid down their lives in pursuit of a safer, more just society," Obama said in a proclamation issued by the White House.
The president said his administration has devoted "significant resources" to improving officers' safety, providing bulletproof vests that have saved lives, training officers to prevent and survive potentially deadly encounters and strengthening information-sharing capabilities.
Obama said a new nationwide wireless network for public safety will give police officers and other emergency responders a dedicated communication network during times of crisis.
"We owe a profound debt to all those who have worn the badge, and to the families whose care enables them to serve with courage and pride," the proclamation said.
"When the unthinkable happens and officers give their lives or are seriously injured in the line of duty, we have an obligation to give their loved ones the support they deserve."
Obama called on governors in the United States and Puerto Rico and other U.S. territories and other government officials to fly flags at half-staff Tuesday for Peace Officers Memorial Day.
A 1962 joint resolution of Congress authorizes the U.S. president to designate May 15 of each year Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which it falls as Police Week.
