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Blessed are the ‘peace makers’

 

The Gospel of Matthew declares, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” This instruction from our Savior certainly applies to Louisiana’s outstanding law enforcement officers who work hard to make our State an even better place for us to live, work, worship, and raise our families

As a former military policeman, municipal officer, and sheriff’s deputy — I know firsthand the many sacrifices made by law enforcement and their families to help ensure the public’s safety. Our law enforcement officers often perform the most exemplary acts of bravery and service with little to no fanfare or accolades.

This past week, National Police Week, is a great time to change that and offer thanks and appreciation to those brave men and women on the Thin Blue Line who are essential to making peace in our communities.

I am especially grateful for relationships my office and I have had with our law enforcement partners across Louisiana. Working hand-in-hand with our state’s police departments and sheriff offices — the Louisiana Department of Justice has fought the opioid epidemic, protected our children from cyber predators, and apprehended hundreds of fugitives. Louisiana’s officers and deputies are daily helping us to fulfill our mission of making our State safer.

With rising crime across our nation, it is clear we need more good law enforcement officers not less; and we need to fund them. This week, I also recommit to my vow of having the backs of law enforcement officers who operate in the law. This vow extends to their families as well, especially to the ones whose family member gave the ultimate sacrifice.

I can think of no better way to thank our fallen heroes than meeting the needs of the families they leave behind. As Attorney General, it is my humble honor to serve as the Chairman of the Law Enforcement and Firemen Survivor Benefits Board. As we know far too well and far too often — some of our state’s best people woke up, went to work, and — in carrying out their duties — never made it home. Their deaths leave grieving spouses and orphaned children; and our State owes these families so much for their unbearable losses.

In my time as chair, we have provided support to nearly 80 families — a sobering reminder of the risks faced while walking the Thin Blue Line. In just the last year, we have opened 26 new cases. I will continue to do all that I legally can to fulfill our promise to these families as quickly as possible. No measure of assistance can fill the void of a lost loved one, but my prayer is that it will help meet their needs in the most harrowing time of their lives.

During this week, I encourage all of Louisiana to join me in saying “Thank You” to local and state law enforcement for protecting and serving. Thank you for answering the call — anytime, anywhere. And thank you for being peacemakers.

Jeff Landry is the attorney general for the state of Louisiana.