Contact: Elaine Tricoli
Phone: (336) 373-2421

Greensboro Police Prepare for National Police Week Observance

GREENSBORO, NC – (April 24, 2008) – Greensboro police officers and their counterparts throughout the country are preparing to celebrate National Police Week, May 10-17, to pay tribute to officers who serve our communities and to remember those who have died in the line of duty.

“Our officers, and police officers everywhere, take an oath to serve and protect their communities,” said Greensboro Police Chief Tim Bellamy. “The men and women who take this oath are dedicated, committed, extraordinary people who work hard every day to uphold laws and to make our communities safe for everyone.”

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy designated May 15 as Peace Officers’ Memorial Day and the week containing that date as National Police Week. In commemoration, the US flag is to be flown at half-staff on all government buildings on May 15. Since that time, law enforcement agencies and communities throughout the country have used the occasion to honor fallen officers and to recognize the contributions of those who support the work of law enforcement agencies.

National Police Week events in Greensboro include a 5K run to support Special Olympics on May 10, the Berkley Blanks Golf Tournament on May 14, and the Police and Citizens Appreciation Dinner and Memorial Ceremony on May 15. All events are open to the public. More information about these events is available on the Police Department’s website at www.greensboro-nc.gov/police.

During the appreciation dinner, the Police Department will name its Officer of the Year and will recognize other officers who made a difference in the community.

“Police officers do so much more than write tickets and uphold laws,” Bellamy said. “They are very devoted to their chosen profession and have an incredible compassion for their fellow man.

It’s not uncommon for officers to use their own money to help others, whether that means buying a meal for someone who’s hungry or finding overnight accommodations for a stranded motorist.”
The dinner also gives the Police Department an opportunity to thank residents who have diligently supported their efforts, Bellamy said.

Tickets for the appreciation dinner are $15 and are available by calling 378-6350. The dinner will be held at the Embassy Suites Hotel, 204 Centreport Drive, beginning at 6 pm.

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The City of Greensboro works in partnership with the community to build an increased quality of life for all residents by fostering an environment where inclusion, diversity, and trust are valued. As the seventh largest employer in Greensboro, the City has a dedicated professional staff of 2700 employees who maintain four core values of honesty, integrity, stewardship, and respect. The City of Greensboro is governed by a council-manager form of government where a mayor and eight council members act as the legislative body. For more information on the City of Greensboro, please visit us online at www.greensboro-nc.gov.