SC Missouri News

Congressman Michael Guest (MS-03), along with Congresswoman Julia Letlow (LA-05), Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), and Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger (VA-07), has introduced H. Res. 1226, a resolution to honor and memorialize fallen law enforcement officers. The introduction of the resolution coincides with National Police Week and acknowledges the 282 officers who lost their lives in the line of duty in 2023 or those whose stories were only recently discovered.

"Police officers are the heroes of our communities, protecting us from crime and defending innocent citizens from those who seek to do harm," said Congressman Guest. "I am honored to lead this legislation that expresses that the Members of the House of Representatives support our law enforcement officers, appreciate all they do for our communities, and pay tribute to those who have lost their lives in the line of duty."

Congresswoman Letlow expressed her gratitude towards law enforcement officers and encouraged her constituents to do the same. Similarly, Congresswoman Spanberger shared her personal connection to law enforcement as both a daughter and former officer herself, expressing her respect for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

Congressman Pappas emphasized that Police Week is an annual event meant to thank law enforcement officers for their service and remember those who have given their lives in the line of duty.

In 1962, President Kennedy signed Public Law 87-725 which authorized Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15 each year. This day is dedicated to honoring law enforcement officers killed or injured in the line of duty. The legislation also authorized National Police Week, which falls on the week containing Peace Officers Memorial Day.

H. Res. 1226 is supported by several organizations including the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, Fraternal Order or Police, National Association of Police Organizations, International Association of Chiefs of Police, and Major Cities Chiefs Association.

Over 80 bipartisan Members of the House of Representatives have joined as original cosponsors of the legislation. Congressman Guest has previously introduced resolutions to honor law enforcement during National Police Week in 2019, 2021, 2022, and 2023.

Congressman Michael Guest represents Mississippi's Third Congressional District and is currently serving his third term. He serves as the Chairman of the Committee on Ethics and is also a member of the Committee on Appropriations and the Committee on Homeland Security.