In 2008, 134 law enforcement officers in the United States were killed in the line of duty, with four of those officers serving in North Carolina.  So far in 2009, that number has reached 46 with three killed from North Carolina alone. In an effort to recognize law enforcement officers for their service, a law was passed in 1962 designating May 15 as Peace Officers' Memorial Day and the week in which May 15th falls as National Police Week.  United States flags will be displayed at half-mast on May 15th at all government buildings in honor of those men and women in law enforcement who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

In a proclamation signed Friday afternoon, Mayor Ronnie Williams has called upon all patriotic, civic, and educational organizations to observe the week of May 11th - 15th, 2009 as National Police Week.  The proclamation recognizes that the men and women of the Garner Police Department "unceasingly provide a vital public service" to the community of Garner. 

"We would like to thank the Mayor for his recognition of National Police Week, and also the continued support of our elected officials and community," said Chief Tom Moss.  "Our officers seek to provide excellent customer service in Garner and come to work willingly knowing the dangers faced by police officers across this nation."

Each year during National Police Week, the Garner Optimist Club holds a banquet for the members of the Garner Police Department to express their gratitude for the police services.  During the banquet, the department names their annual employee of the year.  The employee of the year, nominated and voted on by their peers, is chosen because he or she best exemplifies the principles of community policing.