On May 10th, North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum proclaimed May 11-17 as Police Week in the state. He also declared Thursday, May 12th, as Peace Officers Memorial Day.

Government agencies have been directed to fly flags at half-staff on May 12th

The public is encouraged to do the same. The public is also encouraged to attend North Dakota's annual Law Enforcement Memorial Service scheduled for 7 PM Thursday in the Memorial Hall of the Capitol Building in Bismarck. Governor Burgum also released a statement regarding this special recognition.

“On Peace Officers Memorial Day, we pay tribute to the heroes who wore the uniform with pride and died fighting to protect our families, homes, and communities.

 

We are forever grateful for these fallen officers, including the 66 North Dakotans who lost their lives in the line of duty, and we grieve for their families today and every day.”

This year, West Fargo police officer Lt. Adam Gustafson will be added to the memorial. Lt. Gustafson died in May of 2021, suffering a heart attack while on duty at the West Fargo police station.

All of us should feel the deepest gratitude for those sworn to serve and protect.

Individuals in law enforcement are increasingly under-fire.  Both literally and socially. We all have to recognize the increase in North Dakota news stories that describe how "shots were exchanged with officers".  Literally under fire. I've also read many accounts of individuals leaving law enforcement because of the changing public perception of those tasked to "protect and serve".  Our communities and our law enforcement factions need to make greater efforts to strengthen our bonds and still fairly protect our officers and our citizens.

North Dakota’s annual Law Enforcement Memorial Service will take place at 7 p.m. Thursday in Memorial Hall at the Capitol, 600 E. Boulevard Ave. Scheduled speakers include Lt. Gov. Brent Sanford, Attorney General Drew Wrigley and West Fargo Police Chief Denis Otterness


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