National Police Week May 9-15, 2010
Date: May 10, 2010
Time: 10:00 AM
National Police Week was established in 1962 by President John F. Kennedy. National Police Week pays special tribute to those law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others. Ceremonies are held in Washington, DC, and in communities across the country.
In May the nation reflects and pauses to recognize the service and sacrifice of United States law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice and those who continue to serve. Today, in United States, some 900,000 law enforcement officers put their lives on the line for the safety and protection of others. They serve with valor and distinction and with great success.
That protection comes at a price. Each year, there are approximately 16,000 assaults on law enforcement officers, resulting in nearly 60,000 injuries. Sadly, over the last decade, an average of 160 officers a year has been killed in the line of duty. Throughout U.S. history, nearly 19,000 law enforcement officers have made the ultimate sacrifice. In 2009 Florida eight law enforcement officers were killed in the line of duty.
In 1945 Levy County Deputy Sheriff A. Hagood Ellzey was shot and killed after being lured in the woods by a man that wanted to show him something. When he entered the bushes the man's accomplice shot and killed him. In 1988 Corporal David Wayne Moss with the Williston Police Department answered a disabled vehicle call and he surprised a suspect who shot and killed him. Moss was able to return fire and kill the suspect.
The Levy County Sheriff's Office is dedicated to honoring all of America's law enforcement heroes. Sheriff Smith prays every day for the safety for his deputies, employees and families.
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