By Roger Jimenez, Interning Correspondent for The Apopka Voice
At the opening of the May 7th Apopka City Council meeting, Mayor Bryan Nelson presented a formal proclamation to Police Chief Michael McKinley and Deputy Chief Loretta Quinn-Henry to recognize National Police Week and National Peace Officers Memorial Day.
The proclamation honors the service and sacrifice of law enforcement officers nationwide who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
Nelson reflected on his recent participation in a memorial ceremony held in Orlando, stating,
“The Deputy Chief and I got to go down to Orange County Courts in Orlando, and it was a great ceremony. It's always an honor to be there and see their passion for the officers we’ve lost. I appreciate being able to be a part of that.”
The proclamation began by recounting the history of National Police Week, which was established in 1962 when President John F. Kennedy designated May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which it falls as National Police Week. A joint resolution of Congress was created, and it serves to recognize the brave men and women of law enforcement who have died in the line of duty while protecting others.
The proclamation reads, in part:
"National Police Week pays special recognition to those law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others. The people of Florida honor the thousands of men and women across local, state, federal, and tribal agencies who have made the supreme sacrifice. It is fitting and proper that we express our gratitude for their dedicated service and courageous deeds, and for the lasting contributions they have made to the security of our communities and nation."
McKinley accepted the proclamation on behalf of the Apopka Police Department and expressed his gratitude to the city and its residents.
“On behalf of all the members of the Apopka Police Department, all of our fallen officers, and all of their surviving family members, we thank you for your continued support. The unwavering support that the Apopka Police Department receives from this community means a great deal, and we truly appreciate it.”
Quinn-Henry also expressed appreciation, stating, “Thank you for your support. As you all know, this profession sometimes leads to things such as this, and so we appreciate the things you have done and said in this proclamation for those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice. Let us never forget their families who are still with us and grieving.”
