There isn’t a more dangerous and unpredictable career than that of law enforcement. Every year nationwide, we lose officers in the line of duty to murders, car or motorcycle accidents, on the job injuries, illnesses, and recently to COVID. Aside from the physical perils law enforcement agents face, there’s also the psychological toll the job puts on these individuals. Police and law enforcement officers witness or handle situations that most civilian folks never or rarely have to face, yet these individuals are called to manage those situations on a daily basis.  

Miami-Dade County recognizes the important role our law enforcement officers play. A recent resolution passed declaring Law Enforcement Appreciation Day in Miami-Dade County on   May 13, 2022 and the Friday before National Police Week every year thereafter. It is now an observed county holiday. National Police Week is designated the week of May 11-17.  

Since 1962, President Kennedy and Congress proclaimed May as National Law Enforcement Month, specifically May 15 as National Law Enforcement Memorial Day. Cities across the nation host memorial events during May to honor, respect, and remember those who gave their lives in the line of duty.  

Locally in Miami Dade County, we have a Police Memorial located in Tropical Park. Four black granite walls stand as a tribute to heroism and sacrifice, etched with the names of those men and women who died serving their community. This past May 5, the annual police memorial event was held to honor the memory of our local heroes. If you’re ever in the Tropical Park area, it is highly recommended that you visit the impressive site. I have attended numerous memorials throughout the years and there isn’t one dry eye in the audience. It truly is an event to experience and it is orchestrated beautifully.  

In a time like today where we are facing so much negativity toward law enforcement, it’s easy to lose track that these men and women are human just like all of us and are mothers, fathers, daughters, sons, friends, and neighbors. Yes, there are more “dangerous” jobs out there, and police officers didn’t even make the top 10 in the most recent list, but a police officer puts on that uniform and badge every day without knowing what challenges that shift will bring. The internal and subconscious stress these individuals face is unlike any other profession and their end goal is for everyone to go home at the end of the day; not just the police officer, everyone goes home. To those who have chosen the path of law enforcement and to protect and serve our community, we thank you and stay safe! 

Citizens’ Crime Watch of Miami Dade has close ties to the many local police departments in our county as we work together to promote crime prevention and neighborhood watch. We want to extend a multitude of gratitude to the whole Miami Dade Police Department, as well as the many municipal police departments and their leaders in our county, for their continued support and collaboration with our organization.  

Until next time, be aware, make good choices, and stay safe. 

To reach us contact 305-470-1670 or visit our webpage www.citizenscrimewatch.org. 

Written by: Alina Lopez