Skip to main content

Top Cops Honored at the White House

President Obama and Vice President Biden put aside their differences that came about over the timing of the administration's announcement to support same-sex marriage, to honor a few special police officers for their valiant acts of bravery.

President Obama with Vice President Biden and
Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano honor the nation's  top cops.
"The officers here today have been singled out for extraordinary acts of bravery." said Vice President Biden who called the assembled men and women "a remarkable group of people".

Vice President Biden, speaking in a ceremony in the White House Rose Garden, also credited the officers for their work in the community, calling the officers a "unique bunch of individuals."



"You’re not only the people who risk your lives to protect all of us, you're also the first ones out there to volunteer to lay down the lines of the Little League field. You’re the first ones to volunteer at youth camps. You’re the first one to help your neighbor, whether you've got a badge on or not. 

The thirty-four assembled 'Top Cops', members of the National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), included officers from cities across the country: Los Angeles; Florida (Miami Dade); Chicago, Illinois; Massachusetts; Detroit, Michigan; Las Vegas; New York; Ohio, and Tennessee.  

The officers weren't the only ones receiving praise from the vice president today. Biden also credited President Obama ("without fear of contradiction") as a leader in signing legislation that put more cops on the street, and for providing essential funds needed to replace outdated or non-existent law enforcement communications systems.
 
"This man has been committed to law enforcement his entire career. He has never, never wavered from fighting to make sure you guys have the resources you need not only to protect your communities, but to protect one another, to protect your brothers and sisters. He understands what you know, that having more cops on the street is going to keep you safer."

"Today, we celebrate 34 extraordinary individuals" said President Obama. "And we recognize the sacrifices they and their fellow officers make. We honor all those who have put their lives on the line in order to protect their fellow citizens even if they were complete strangers."

While none of the officers honored at the White House today hailed from the District of Columbia, the city had its own celebration, in conjunction with National Police Week (NPW), by having a 5K race. 

NPW honors law enforcement officers who have given their lives while serving in the line of duty.

Also along those lines, several police officers who rode their bicycles from Charlotte, North Carolina are expected to arrive in DC today where they will then hold a candlelight vigil on Sunday at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

The Story Behind Presidents' Day

Did you know Presidents' Day isn’t just about a day off?  Originally established to honor George Washington’s birthday, it has since grown to celebrate all U.S. presidents who’ve shaped the country’s path. It’s a day to reflect on leadership, service, and the values that drive national progress. Presidents' Day dates back to 1879, when it was first recognized as a federal holiday for Washington. Later, Abraham Lincoln’s February birthday brought attention. By 1971, the Uniform Monday Holiday Act combined the days, creating the long weekend many know today—but its purpose goes far deeper. From decisions that forged independence to policies steering modern challenges, U.S. presidents have helped shape history. It's a moment to appreciate lessons in courage, responsibility, and the impact of strong leadership on society today. How do you celebrate Presidents' Day?  Is it by learning about the leaders who influenced American history? Do you read their biographies, visit ...

Gary Locke Nominated as Ambassador to China

Gary Locke, former White House Secretary of Commerce, has been nominated by the President as U.S. ambassador to China. Locke replaces former Utah governor  Jon Huntsman, who has stepped down to (wait for it) possibly challenge President Obama in the 2012 presidential race. Locke was the first Chinese-American governor and should the Senate approve his nomination, would the be first Chinese-American ambassador to China.  He is a partner in the Seattle office of the law firm Davis Wright Tremaine which lists China as one of its specialties. "Gary has distinguished himself as one of our nation’s most respected and admired public servants.  As our country’s first Chinese-American governor, he worked tirelessly to attract jobs and businesses to Washington State, and he doubled exports to China", said President Obama during this morning's announcement. "He’s been a point person for my National Export Initiative, and last year, Gary’s depa...