LEE COUNTY MS – In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation that designated May 15 as Police Officers Memorial Day; it falls within National Police Week. National Park Service Rangers have been protecting our most precious resources and America’s Best Idea, since the 1800s. Today, close to 2,300 law enforcement Rangers, Special Agents, and United States Park Police officers protect 419 units and over 85 million acres found under the National Park Service. Since 1927, 46 protectors of our parks have made the ultimate sacrifice.
The Natchez Trace Parkway would like to solemnly honor the memory of those officers who gave their lives in the line of duty and to express our deepest gratitude to their surviving families. We also thank those who put their lives on the line each day to protect our treasured resources, visitors, employees, and fellow citizens. Thank you for all you do.
“It’s not how these officers died that made them heroes, it is how they lived.” Vivian Eney Cross, Survivor.
View slideshow: NPS LE Officers who have died in the line of duty
