DOINews: DOI Employees: National Police Week

May 12, 2015

To: All DOI Employees

From: Secretary Sally Jewell

Subject: National Police Week

National Police Week is May 10 through May 16, 2015. I am proud to recognize the Department of the Interior's 4,000 permanent and seasonal law enforcement officers and to pay tribute to those who lost their lives in the line of duty.

These dedicated men and women protect our public and tribal lands and visitors, manage search and rescue incidents, perform emergency medical services, fight fires, and work with visitors from around the world to interpret the significance of our Nation's public lands.

Because of the Department's vast and unique missions, our law enforcement staff must possess a wealth of knowledge and range of skills far beyond typical law enforcement duties. As park rangers, police officers, tribal law enforcement officers, and refuge officers, they often work alone as they patrol large swaths of land. They also work in close partnership with Federal, state, tribal, and local agencies and communities throughout America.

National Police Week is an opportunity to recognize the outstanding service that DOI's officers provide in protecting the public as well as the treasured public and tribal lands we hold in trust.

Last week, the Department presented 23 Valor Awards to bureau law enforcement officers and employees who risked their lives to save others. These courageous acts represent just a few of the many actions that our DOI law enforcement officers engage in every day. I want every one of our officers to know that we recognize and appreciate their service.

Since the Department's founding in 1849, we have lost 139 law enforcement officers in the line of duty. It is important that we do not forget their sacrifices. Please join me in honoring these individuals, as well as all Department employees who wear a badge to serve our country and its public and tribal lands.