Last year, 164 officers across the United States lost their lives in the line of duty while courageously protecting others—five of them from California.

As you reflect on the dedication and courage of these officers, this heartfelt account from a wife may offer insight into the weight of worry their loving families carry every day.

"Last night I was cleaning up the kitchen after dinner when my officer came downstairs, almost ready to leave for work. He handed me his badge with a mourning band pulled over it and asked, “can you help me with this?” I pinned it on his uniform with steady hands, gave him a kiss, said a prayer, and sent him out into the night; to do the very same job that killed an officer the evening prior. As the garage door shut and I watched his patrol car drive away, I felt my heart shatter into a thousand tiny pieces. I thought of the dozens of officers we’ve lost in the line of duty this year alone, and the thousands of officers we’ve lost before that. I thought about their families left behind, and the holes they now have in their lives where their loved ones used to be. I thought about that Law Enforcement Officer’s Wife, who just like me had kissed her officer goodbye two days ago and never got to kiss him again. I thought about our broken world and the hurt and hatred around every corner. I felt a literal pain in my chest. But at the same time as I felt my heart shatter, I also felt it swell. I am PROUD of my husband for choosing to dedicate his life to serving and protecting others. I am humbled by his servant heart. I am awed by his steadiness and certainty. I am forever indebted to him and the thousands of other first responders across our country who make the choice to keep showing up for their communities, regardless of the price and the sacrifice. Last night, my heart broke for our blue family, and I know it will break again. But today, my heart overflows, knowing that my officer and thousands of others just like him, are answering their call to serve, no matter the cost."

To learn more about these heroes and their sacrifice, please visit the Officer Down Memorial Page: https://www.odmp.org.

At Law Enforcement Chaplaincy of Napa County, we are honored to serve and pay tribute to these law enforcement heroes, gifting flags to businesses, churches and individuals.

Join Flags Across Napa Campaign. Request a flag if you have a prominent public-facing flagpole to showcase it, ensuring visibility and community recognition where passing officers will be reminded of the support of law-abiding and grateful citizens.