Honoring our nation’s defenders Published May 22, 2012 436th Security Forces Squadron DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. -- "To Protect and Serve." These words are seen on police cars across America - the mantra of law enforcement officers who place their lives on the line daily to protect the communities they live and serve in. Many police officers have made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of their communities. This is the time of year when the 436th Security Forces Squadron partners with other members of Dover Air Force Base, Del., and local community to honor the brave men and women who risk their lives every day to ensure homes, families and the American way of life are kept safe through the observance of National Police Week. On Oct. 1, 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed Public Law 87-726, designating May 15th as Peace Officers' Memorial Day, and the week surrounding it as National Police Week. There are approximately 740,000 sworn law enforcement officers who serve the American people. On average, 150 officers die each year in the line of duty, or one officer every 57 hours. The deadliest day in law enforcement history was September 11, 2001, when 72 officers were killed in the line of duty. It is to commemorate these fallen heroes - to keep their memories alive - that National Police Week is observed.