SPRINGFIELD – Illinois Fraternal Order of Police State Lodge President Chris Southwood issued the following message for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday:
“The millions of people in this state who support and appreciate the work of Illinois' law enforcement officers are our greatest blessing,” said Illinois Fraternal Order of Police President Chris Southwood. “These folks don't grab the headlines, yet their quiet determination to back the men and women who wear the badge gives us encouragement and inspiration each and every day.
“Ours is a dangerous, stressful and increasingly deadly occupation. In these difficult times it's comforting to know that the majority of our fellow citizens appreciate what we do to ensure and protect their rights and freedoms as Americans.
“We humbly thank our neighbors and friends for your continued support and encouragement, and we will work as always to make this a safe and blessed holiday season."
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, chartered in 1963, is the second largest State Lodge, proudly representing more than 34,000 active duty and retired police officers - more than 10 percent of all FOP members nationwide. Visit www.ilfop.org for more information.
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