National Peace Officers Memorial Day is Friday-- a fitting time to pause and remember the law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others.

CSJ/TSM-Rochester
CSJ/TSM-Rochester
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I've noted before that I'm a huge supporter of law enforcement. My dad was a police officer in Wisconsin for over 30 years.  We were lucky, in that during his over 30 years of service, he returned home safely to us at the end of each shift. I'm grateful for that fact, and enormously proud of his service on the force.

But not all law enforcement families are as lucky as mine. Sadly, according to the Minnesota Law Enforcement Memorial Association, 271 officers have been killed in the line of duty here in Minnesota. And, in my hometown in Wisconsin, Detective Jason Weiland of the Everest Metro Police Department was killed in the line of duty in March 2017. That tragic event hit me hard, as that was the same department my for which my dad worked all those years. (Dad retired from the department nearly 20 years ago; he lost his battle with cancer three years ago.)

So, as we approach this Peace Officer's Memorial Day, I'd like to pause and remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice in trying to protect the rest of us. I can't imagine the loss their families have gone through.

But, seeing as this week is National Police Week, I'd like to also salute those who continue to put on the uniform and badge. They head to work each day, not knowing what their patrol might bring, hoping-- but again not knowing-- that they'll make it home safely, all to help protect society and keep the peace.

It's a tough job, and our ongoing battle with the coronavirus has made it even tougher. (In fact, much like everything else, traditional ceremonies usually held to commemorate this week haven't been able to be held this year thanks to the ongoing outbreak.) But it's an important job, and they do it regardless. And for that, they have my utmost respect.

To all the brave men and women in law enforcement not only here in Minnesota, but back in Wisconsin and all over the country (and world), I say, thank you for your service. You truly are our country's finest!

Listen to Curt St. John mornings from 6 to 10 a.m. on Quick Country 96.5
and afternoons from 2 to 4 p.m. on 103.9 The Doc!

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