As we enter National Police Week, communities across the Mid-Ohio Valley are taking a moment to reflect, honor, and show appreciation for the men and women who wear the badge.
One such tribute, Operation Blue Sky, saw law enforcement officers from all around the region traveling through local towns to recognize not just their peers currently serving, but also those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
This moving display is part of a larger, nationwide effort to honor the service and sacrifice of law enforcement officers — both in the United States and around the world.
Many officers will soon gather in Washington, D.C., to participate in Police Officers Memorial Day and other Police Week events designed to pay tribute to fallen heroes and support their families.
The message from the organizers of these events is clear: “We are dedicated to honoring the service and sacrifice of law enforcement officers and providing support to their families and colleagues.” Their mission is a reminder to all of us to show genuine appreciation for the individuals who risk their lives every day to protect our communities.
A somber yet powerful part of this tribute is the Roll Call of Heroes for 2025. It contains the names of officers who have lost their lives in recent years — a list that is far too long. From Ohio, names like Jacob Derbin (killed in 2024), Rex Emrick (2021), Andrew Lansing (2024), Rodney Osborne (2024), David Reynolds (2021), and Jamieson Ritter (2024) appear on the list.
Though West Virginia State Police Sgt. Cory Maynard, who was tragically ambushed in 2023, is not listed this year, his memory — and that of all West Virginian officers lost in the line of duty — will certainly be honored during the week.
These stories serve as a stark reminder that being in law enforcement is not just a job — it’s a calling that comes with real risks. Officers willingly place themselves in harm’s way so that the rest of us can live with a greater sense of safety and peace of mind.
Unfortunately, a few bad actors occasionally cast a shadow on the profession, but that should never diminish the daily sacrifices made by the vast majority of officers who serve with integrity and courage. They are the ones who patrol our neighborhoods, respond to emergencies, comfort victims, and work tirelessly behind the scenes.
Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost recently urged citizens not to wait until tragedy strikes to appreciate their local law enforcement. His words resonate deeply: it shouldn’t take the loss of an officer to remind us to say “thank you.”
So, during this Police Week — and every week — let’s take a moment to express our gratitude. If you see an officer at a gas station, on patrol, or in your neighborhood, offer a kind word or a simple thank-you. These small gestures mean a lot to those who often go unrecognized while putting their lives on the line.
National Police Week is more than just a memorial. It’s a chance for communities to come together in support of those who serve. Whether through organized events or personal expressions of thanks, we can all play a role in showing appreciation. After all, these officers are not just protecting our streets — they’re protecting our way of life.
