National Police Week presents an opportunity to reflect on the dedication it takes for a person to decide to protect and serve the rest of us. And on days such as Peace Officers Memorial Day Friday, we also have a chance to honor those who gave their lives to do so.

“National Police Week is a time to reflect on the immense bravery and dedication of our law enforcement partners,” said Jack McNeely, director of the Governor’s Highway Safety Program. “Every day, these men and women put themselves at risk to ensure that our roads are safe for everyone. Their commitment to enforcing life-saving traffic laws is a major reason why we are able to reduce fatalities and move closer to our goal of zero deaths on West Virginia roadways.”

In Ohio, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base kicked off observance of the week with the 88th Security Forces Squadron honoring fallen officers.

“National Police Week is about us, as law enforcement officers. It is a time etched into the United States History to honor our fallen and a tribute to those who place themselves in harm’s way on a daily occurrence,” said 88th Security Forces Squadron Senior Enlisted Leader, Chief Master Sergeant Joseph Serrano, according to a report by WKEF in Dayton.

Most of the rest of us have no idea what it is like to start each workday knowing the day could include split-second, life-or-death decisions; or encounters that would put us in harm’s way. Those who become police officers choose that for themselves — for us — every day.

Law enforcement officers will have a range of events and activities to attend, both at home, or in Washington, D.C., if they choose to attend the national celebration. We must hope they have a chance to relax and enjoy some of it; and that they are able to experience the gratitude the rest of us feel for their work.

They deserve our gratitude and our support every week. Thank you, folks, for everything you do — everything you risk — for us.