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Video Transcript

Director Christopher Wray: Since 1962, our nation has paused each year to mark National Police Week. 

It’s a time to recognize those who serve in law enforcement – to celebrate the courage they demonstrate every single day, and to express our gratitude for the sacrifices they make. 

As a law enforcement community, we work together to fight violent crime and keep illegal drugs off our streets. To keep children safe from predators and thwart terrorists.  

This profession is certainly not an easy one. It takes an incredibly special person to leave the house every morning and knowingly put their life on the line that day—willingly—and for complete strangers. And it’s the sad reality of our jobs that there are far too many families whose loved ones don’t return home.  

So, Police Week also is a time to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving the communities they were sworn to protect. 

Across the country, 60 law enforcement officers were feloniously killed in the line of duty last year. And while that number is down from its peak in 2021, it’s still totally unacceptable.  

And particularly upsetting to me is that we continue to see officers targeted, simply because they wear the badge. It’s why every chance I get, I continue to push communities all across the country to recognize and support those who serve. The sacrifice of those killed in the line of duty—and their families—should be an inspiration to us all.

I want our FBI Family and our law enforcement partners across the nation to know how grateful I am for all you do to protect our country and keep our communities safe. The work you do makes a real difference in the lives of countless Americans. 

This week—and every week—we stand with you, to pay tribute to your dedication to public safety, to remember our fallen colleagues, and to renew our commitment to carry on their work and legacy.  

Thank you for your service. And as always, stay safe out there.