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Friends,
This week is National Police Week, a week to honor the men and women in blue who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Our gratitude for our law enforcement officers and their families cannot be overstated. Every day, these men and women go to work not knowing what the day will bring, not knowing the danger they will face. In the last year alone, 224 officers were killed. To the families and friends of these brave men and women: we grieve with you, we support you, and we will never forget the sacrifices your loved ones made.
Let’s honor and remember those who serve, those who have served, and those we’ve lost. Here in Minnesota, our state experienced the grief of losing one of these heroes. Just last month, Pope County Sheriff’s Deputy Josh Owen was shot and killed when responding to a call. Deputy Owen was not only a member of the Pope County Sheriff’s Department, but he was a husband, father, son, and brother. The men and women who wear the badge are parents, spouses, friends, your kid’s little league coach, or a member of your church. These attacks on peace officers must stop.
Not only this week, but every day, we must support and thank our officers for the work they do in Minnesota and across the country. To those who wear the badge: thank you.
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