SPRINGFIELD – Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in service to the United States of America. Members of the Illinois Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) join other first responders who will be on duty over the weekend to urge citizens to have a safe and enjoyable holiday while remembering and honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation.
“Veterans have given their lives across the globe to preserve our freedom, and it's our job as law enforcement officers to protect those hard-won freedoms in our communities,” said Illinois FOP State Lodge President Chris Southwood. “We are on duty Memorial Day and every other day to help keep citizens safe so they can be with family and friends and enjoy the benefits of our free society.”
“Many law enforcement officers are veterans themselves and feel a kinship with all who have served our country in the Armed Forces,” said Illinois FOP Labor Council Executive Director David Wickster. “We deeply appreciate, respect and honor all of our fallen heroes and urge our fellow citizens to do the same on Memorial Day, whether they are at work or have the day off to spend with their loved ones.”
The Fraternal Order of Police, founded in 1915, is the largest organization of sworn law enforcement officers in the United States. With a proud tradition of officers representing officers, the FOP is the most respected and most recognized police organization in the country. The Illinois FOP State Lodge, chartered in 1963, is the second largest State Lodge, proudly representing more than 32,000 active duty and retired police officers - more than 10 percent of all FOP members nationwide. Visit www.ilfop.org for more information.
The Illinois Fraternal Order of Police Labor Council is a law enforcement union representing more than 11,600 professionals in more than 514 bargaining units who work in the criminal justice system. The Labor Council negotiates and enforces contracts and improves salaries, working conditions, and benefits for law enforcement professionals throughout Illinois. Its members include police officers who work for municipalities, universities, and elected Constitutional officials; county sheriff’s deputies, correctional and court security officers; probation officers; 911 telecommunicators; law enforcement records personnel; and some related support staff. Visit www.fop.org for more information.
(Dave Blanchette)
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