As we continue to grieve the loss of law enforcement officers in the unspeakable acts in Dallas and Baton Rouge, our nation is reminded of the tremendous responsibility shouldered by our police. Every day these men and women report for duty knowing full well that they may not come home to their families at the end of their shift, but they make that sacrifice nonetheless because they believe in serving their communities and keeping their citizens safe. That these officers fell in the midst of their efforts to protect and defend these communities is as unconscionable as it is heartbreaking.
These horrific tragedies remind us, especially those in public leadership positions, that we must embrace our law enforcement and hold them up, for we are a nation of laws and our laws exist solely because our society has committed itself to upholding them and the values that bind us. The rule of law is the fundamental fabric of our society – it is what has separated us as the world’s shining example for more than two centuries. And the rule of law can only be maintained by the courage and sacrifice that law enforcement personnel demonstrate by putting their lives on the line every day for the sake of the rest of us and the laws by which we have democratically chosen to live.
There are over 900,000 sworn law enforcement officers across this great nation who make tremendous sacrifices each day to selflessly protect us. While working in the Commonwealth Attorney’s Office in Pittsylvania County, I had the opportunity to work closely with dozens of these brave men and women and witnessed firsthand their dedication to keeping our communities safe. Their service to our local communities across Virginia’s Fifth District and our country is profoundly important, and we are forever grateful for their commitment.
On August 2, communities across Virginia’s Fifth District, the entire Commonwealth, and the nation come together to participate in National Night Out, providing an opportunity for these communities to spend time together so law enforcement better know those they serve and vice versa. Recognizing the need for partnership between police and the neighborhoods they protect, these fun-filled events strengthen police-community relations, which in turn seek to reduce crime and improve the safety and well-being of our communities. I would encourage you and your family to take part in your local National Night Out event to not only show your support for law enforcement but to also offer them feedback on the most effective ways to keep a community safe.
Our appreciation for and engagement with law enforcement cannot be reserved solely for one day a year; we should remember and be thankful for their sacrifices each day, just as our police must be involved with our citizens each day to remain open and accountable to those they serve. We remain forever indebted to our law enforcement officers for the protection they provide and the values they represent. I hope you will join me in praying for those we have lost, thanking our officers for their service, and honoring those who have made such great sacrifices by serving in the line of duty.
If you need any additional information or if we may be of assistance to you, please visit my website at hurt.house.gov or call my Washington office: (202) 225-4711, Charlottesville office: (434) 973-9631, Danville office: (434) 791-2596, or Farmville office: (434) 395-0120.
Robert Hurt represents the Fifth District of Virginia in Congress.
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