In recognition of Peace Officers Memorial Day, Gov. Neil Abercrombie has ordered that all State of Hawaii flags be flown at half-staff alongside the flags of the United States at state offices and agencies as well as the Hawaii National Guard from sunrise to sunset Wednesday, May 15, 2013.
The President also called upon all governors of the United States and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, officials of the other territories subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, and appropriate officials of all units of government, to direct that the U.S. flag be flown at half-staff on Peace Officers Memorial Day, and encouraged all Americans to display the flag at half-staff from their homes and businesses on that day.
Day after day, police officers in every corner of America suit up, put on the badge, and carry out their sworn duty to protect and serve. They step out the door every morning without considering bravery or heroics. They stay focused on meeting their responsibilities. They concentrate on keeping their neighborhoods safe and doing right by their fellow officers. And with quiet courage, they help fulfill the demanding yet vital task of shielding our people from harm. It is work that deserves our deepest respect — because when darkness and danger would threaten the peace, our police officers are there to step in, ready to lay down their lives to protect our own.
As we mark this occasion, let us remember that we can do no greater service to those who perished than by upholding what they fought to protect. That means doing everything we can to make our communities safer. It means putting cops back on the beat and supporting them with the tools and training they need. It means getting weapons of war off our streets and keeping guns out of the hands of criminals — common-sense measures that would reduce gun violence and help officers do their job safely and effectively.