Protecting the Palm Beaches – a tribute to those who serve and sacrifice
Bottom Line: This weekly feature is designed to recognize those who've paid the ultimate price to serve their communities and to serve as a reminder of what our police risk to keep us safe.
This is the unfortunate news you need to know:
- 148 police officers died in the line of duty in 2018 & the top cause of death was murder for the first time on record
- 52 police officers have died while serving in 2019
- Four in Florida
- Five fallen officers this week
It’s been an especially deadly week for those who put on a badge and go to work in our communities. In New York, Officer William Leahy died of cancer attributed to his work as a first responder on 9/11. In Texas, Officer Albert Castaneda was struck and killed by a vehicle while on duty. A Coast Guard veteran he’s survived by two children. In California, Officer Esmeralda Ramirez died due to injuries of a crash she suffered while on duty. She’s survived by three children. In Texas, Sergeant David Jones Fitzpatrick died during training exercises. A Marine veteran he’s survived by his wife. In Alabama Deputy Julius Dailey was killed in a vehicle crash while in pursuit of a burglary suspect.He’s survived by his daughter.
In addition to losing 52 officers this year, there are 31 widows and 63 children who’ve lost a parent.
The average age of the fallen, 43. The average tour of duty, 14 years.
Remember to back the badge and spread the word. Media often aren't there for our law enforcement, but we can be. Let our police, and their families, know we support them every chance you get. They need it, now more than ever, just as we need them more than ever.