National Police Week 2021: Honoring the Fallen

Hello, everyone -- I'm Secretary Deb Haaland here. 

Thank you for the opportunity to share my words of gratitude during today’s Wreath Laying ceremony honoring the law enforcement officers who gave the ultimate sacrifice to uphold the mission of our Department.

My words today will never fill the holes left by these heroes, but please know that your families are in our prayers during this difficult time. 

The Department of the Interior’s law enforcement agencies are critical
to protecting public safety and ensuring that we can fulfill our promise to protect America’s resources, honor our commitments to Tribal Nations, and preserve treasured places for generations to come. 

This past year, our law enforcement officers were on the frontlines during the COVID-19 crisis – they did not have the luxury of staying home.

As essential workers, they put themselves at risk so that our communities could be safe and seek solace in the outdoors during this pandemic. 

Today, we honor the four officers who were laid to rest in 2020:
Officers David Kellywood,
Charlie Joe Cortez,
Michael Lee,
and Bryan Brown. 

Each of them demonstrated the commitment to service law enforcement officers carry with them each day and we are incredibly grateful for their sacrifice. 

As each name is read, it’s important to remember the good times you shared with them, their profound service to our country, and the challenges you overcame together. 

My dad served in Vietnam when I was young.

I remember the feeling of hope we had that our Dad would come home after he had finished his duty for our country. 

My mom would sit us down at the kitchen table to write letters to him, because she knew it wasn’t a guarantee that he would come home.

I’d like to take a moment to thank the families with us for sacrificing right alongside our law enforcement professionals and supporting them as they do a tough job.

Our DOI officers at our seven separate operational law enforcement programs go above and beyond as first responders to wildfires, hurricanes, victim support, wildlife trafficking, and protecting everyone on public and Tribal lands. 

All of these roles are critical to the country.

I hope that all of our officers here with us today are taking care, using the  wellness services available to them and finding moments of joy with their families and friends, especially during this challenging time. 

My heart is with you all as we honor the memories of those we lost and show gratitude to those who are still with us.  
 
Thank you.