Today is the middle of National Police Week May 9 – 15. It was established by Congressional resolution in 1962 to “pay special attention to those law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others.” Each year our nation loses 140 – 160 cops in the line of duty.
I am the proud matriarch of a police family. In 1966, my husband, Ken, began a twenty-five year career with the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Police. Our daughter, Lisa, became one of the first female Illinois State Troopers. Our son, Kurt, joined his father as a deputy. To schedule family celebrations for holidays and special occasions, I worked around three shifts and sleep times. It wasn’t the date on the calendar that was important, but the people gathered around our table.
Friends often asked, “Aren’t you worried all of the time?”
My stock reply, “No. If worry would keep them safe, I’d do it, but it won’t. I pray they won’t get shot and that they won’t have to shoot someone.”
I’ve taken part in the rituals that accompany the death of a police officer in the line of duty. On March 15, 1974, Winnebago County Deputy Michael Mayborne, 28, was shot and killed by Ted Bacino, a fleeing bank robber. As a detective’s wife, I empathized with Mike’s family and supported my husband as he grieved for his bomb squad partner.
Ken, Lisa and Kurt are retired from law enforcement. Two years ago, our grandson, Jacob, joined the Rockford Police Department.
Today’s officers are under bombardment. Yet, these men and women protect and serve all of you and your families. They walk out the doors of their homes knowing it may be the last time their families get to hug and kiss them.
How do you view the police?