Those Who Wear the Badge Deserve Support

During National Police Week, we pause to honor the men and women in law enforcement who put on the badge each day to serve and protect their communities.

This week is not only about recognition but also remembrance. Across the country, officers have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Behind each name is a story of service, a family forever changed, and a community that owes a debt it can never fully repay.

Law enforcement is more than a profession. It is a calling that requires courage, restraint, and a willingness to run toward danger when others run away. Officers face uncertainty every day, yet they continue to show up, driven by a deep sense of duty to the people they serve.

National Police Week is an opportunity to reaffirm our support for those who continue to serve by ensuring they have the resources, training, and support to do their jobs safely and effectively.

That commitment is reflected in provisions included in the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, which I was proud to vote for. This legislation strengthens protections for law enforcement and shows the country how important it is to stand with our men and women in uniform.

These measures include the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act, which recognizes exposure-related cancers as line-of-duty injuries, ensuring officers and their families can access critical benefits. Additionally, the Improving Police CARE Act enhances emergency preparedness by setting standards for trauma kits and training, and the PROTECT Our Children Reauthorization Act strengthens efforts to combat child exploitation through improved coordination. Lastly, the Chief Herbert D. Proffitt Act extends benefits to retired officers whose service-related injuries result in tragedy later in life.

In a time when the challenges facing law enforcement are complex and evolving, our gratitude should be clear and unwavering. We honor those we have lost by supporting those who still serve.