Mayor Bill Finch and the leadership of Bridgeport Police Union Local 1159 announced plans for a July fundraiser with a goal of raising $50,000 toward a Bridgeport Police Memorial outside Police Headquarters on Congress Street. Tens of thousands of private sector dollars already have been raised to match the public investment in the important project.
On Wednesday, National Peace Officer Memorial Day, Mayor Finch honored Bridgeport’s Police Officers for the dangerous work they do every day to keep residents safe.
“On average, one American law enforcement officer is killed in the line of duty every 57 hours,” said Mayor Bill Finch. “It is a dangerous and difficult job. Tragically, some don’t make it home at the end of their shift and we need to honor them for their bravery and service.”
Fundraising has been ongoing for the memorial. Construction is expected to begin this summer. An event has been scheduled for July 1 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Fire Engine Pizza Company, 2914 Fairfield Ave, Bridgeport. Supporters also can purchase commemorative brick pavers that will be incorporated into the memorial. Order forms can be found at the Police Union website at http://www.
“This is a meaningful week for everyone who works in law enforcement,” said Police Chief Joseph L. Gaudett Jr. “This is the one profession that runs toward gunfire. There is a bond, a brotherhood, that is hard to explain. We consider it an honor and duty to attend funerals for brother and sister officers whom we’ve never met.”
In 1962, President Kennedy proclaimed May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the calendar week in which May 15th 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.
“We look forward to working with the mayor, police chief and all supporters of law enforcement to make this memorial a reality,” said police union president Charles Paris.
A dozen Bridgeport police officers have paid the ultimate sacrifice. The most recent officer to die in the line of duty was in 1980.