LETTERS: AWARD HONORED ALL POLICE OFFICERS

To the editor:

In the May 10 Southeast Missourian, you published a picture of me receiving an award from the Breakfast and Evening Optimist clubs. The caption reflected the Optimist clubs were presenting me with a law-enforcement award. However, the Optimist clubs were actually presenting the Cape Girardeau Police Department with a plaque to demonstrate their appreciation for law-enforcement officers within our community. I was merely receiving the plaque on behalf of the fine men and women who serve in law enforcement.

Tragically, a police officer is killed in the line of duty somewhere in America every 54 hours. Although crime rates are declining throughout the United States, we are paying a considerable price with the lives of courageous crime fighters.

May 9-15 is National Police Week established by President John F. Kennedy in 1962 with Public Law 87-726. On May 14, during a memorial service at Cape County Park, we will pause to recognize and honor those who have fallen in the line of duty. I would ask our citizens to join us during this week of recognition and remembrance for those who serve our communities to ensure peace, prosperity and quality of life.

RICHARD L. HETZEL, Chief of Police

Cape Girardeau