To American Law Enforcement:
Today, you are away from family and friends keeping others safe from crime and disorder as you keep counterterrorism on the forefront of your mind. The Profession I love and the one you have sworn an oath to be a part of has never been more difficult. Often caught in the middle of politics and rhetoric — and now the rise in crime across the nation — police must continue to stand tall.
Remember why you chose this honorable profession and that you are proudly part of something greater than yourself. Know that the public needs you, and you work matters. After all — the freedoms we celebrate today, those enshrined in the Declaration of Independence 245 years ago in the Constitution we uphold — rest on the public safety that you provide.
It was our founding father Thomas Paine, who said that: "Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom must undergo the fatigues of supporting it."
As police, you certainly shoulder a larger share of those fatigues. And in doing so, you lead lives of significance.
Thank you for choosing to serve our communities, and for making a difference every day. I wish you and your loved ones a happy Fourth of July.
Cops Count - Police Matter.
Sincerely,
Bill Bratton