In 1962, President Kennedy proclaimed May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the calendar week in which May 15 falls as National Police Week. Established by a joint resolution of Congress in 1962, National Police Week pays special recognition to those law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others.

Law Enforcement is an honorable and satisfying profession. However, it is a hazardous profession. The Cortez Police Department would like to honor and thank all law enforcement professionals for the difficult work they do day in and day out. The Cortez Police Department would also like to send our condolences to the family and friends of those officers who have lost their lives serving and protecting their communities. 

The Cortez Police Department would like to pay special tribute to Cortez Police Officer Dale Claxton, who was shot and killed in the line of duty on May 29, 1998, after stopping a stolen water truck. Officer Claxton, you are forever missed.

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End of Watch, May 29, 1998