Respect and Admiration

In 2023, 124 Law Enforcement Officers in our Nation were killed in the line of duty. The number is significantly down from 2022, but it's not enough. The biggest killers of Cops throughout history, gunfire and crashes, are also significantly down. Again, until that number is zero, it's not good enough.

My thoughts and prayers go out to each of these hero's families, friends, and agencies. Not only 124 lives ended, but thousands of lives were altered and changed. The effects of these senseless acts will impact the lives of their loved ones forever. I have given death notifications to families, sat with them during funerals, and accompanied them to Washington, D.C. to the National Memorial. The families of Cops are just like the heroes who gave their lives, tough as hell! They should always have our respect and admiration.

Another number that I am monitoring is the number of civilians who were shot and killed by Law Enforcement Officers in 2023. The final numbers haven't been published, but they will also be significantly lower based on the most recent numbers.

I credit both numbers as being lower with increased training, technology, and solid leadership. We, old guys, love to talk about "back in the day." But, if we are honest, we will admit that the men and women on the streets at this very moment are the best we've ever had. In my opinion, they are more intelligent and better trained and still as tough as they come.

124 Law Enforcement Officers lost their lives in 2023. When the final numbers are in,  probably around 800 Cops were forced to take someone's life. The similarity between these groups are this: neither signed up for that. I have worked with thousands of Law Enforcement professionals throughout my 34-year career. I have never met one, not even one, that wanted to die or wanted to take another person's life. However, every one of them knew it was a possibility. They accepted it and did their jobs every day selflessly and without hesitation. The heroes that died for us should forever be honored and remembered. Those who put themselves in harm's way to keep us safe should be supported and respected.

Thank you to all law enforcement officers who served us in 2023. Also, thank you to their families for sacrificing and giving their loved ones to us.