The family of fallen Phoenix police Officer David Glasser attended a White House ceremony Monday as President Donald J. Trump declared May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day, and the surrounding seven days as Police Week.

Glasser’s wife and son were accompanied by various sworn members of the Phoenix Police Department, as well as representatives from the Ulster County Sheriff Department in New York and New Jersey state troopers.

A White House proclamation released Monday said Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week were to honor the men and women of law enforcement who have been killed or disabled in the line of duty.

“Police officers are the thin blue line whose sacrifices protect and serve us every day, and we pledge to support them as they risk their lives to safeguard ours,” the proclamation read.

Glasser, 35, was a 12-year veteran of the department when he was shot during a gun battle with a burglary suspect on May 18, 2016. Glasser died the following morning. The suspect, 20-year-old Israel Santos-Banos, was fatally shot, as well.

According to a White House press statement, 118 officers died in the line of duty in 2016, and 66 of those were killed during attacks.

The proclamation said the Trump administration will “continue to further the efforts of the Department of Justice to improve the lives of law enforcement officers and their families.”

This would include supporting the Officer Safety and Wellness Group, and accelerating the benefits process for the families of fallen officers.

Trump called on local jurisdictions to fly the American flag at half-staff on Peace Officers Memorial Day, and urged private businesses and citizens to do the same.

READ MORE: 

Slain Phoenix Officer David Glasser honored with historical marker

Fallen officer remembered as ‘larger than life’

Widow of Officer Glasser pens note of thanks

 

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