In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation which designated the week of May 15^th as National Police Week. This week serves as a time to reflect on the great sacrifices that our police officers have made to keep us safe. Tens of thousands of law enforcement officers from around the United States gathered in Washington to participate in events honoring those that have paid the ultimate sacrifice.

As a staunch advocate for police officers across America, I am thankful we continue commemorating the sacrifices that have been made. The dangers our law enforcement officers face are very real and fresh on many of our minds following the senseless attack on Officer Robert McKeithen two weeks ago. 

Over the course of several years, south Mississippi has faced the tragic loss of three upstanding police officers. Officers Benjamin Deen, Liquori Tate, and Robert McKeithen all lost their lives in the line of duty. These brave men chose to enter the line of public service as an officer because they felt called to protect and serve our communities. Our men and women in blue choose to back us, and we as members of our communities should find ways to return the favor. 

Through my work on the Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations subcommittee I've supported funding for Project Safe Neighborhoods. This programs helps all levels of law enforcement join together to identify the crime problems in a community and create solutions to help address these issues. In addition to my work on the committee, I will continue supporting legislation that increases penalties for those who attack police officers.

We close out the week by offering our sincerest appreciation for those who have laid their life on the line while protecting our community. Thank you to those who have served and those who continue to serve. 

Week in Pictures
I enjoyed welcoming several of Mississippi's realtors to the nation's capital this week. During our meeting we discussed the National Flood Insurance Program, infrastructure, and opportunity zones that were established under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act! 

It was my pleasure to welcome these Mississippi anesthesiologists to my office. They were in town this week to discuss physician-led anesthesia care and other legislative initiatives. 

As always, I'd like to remind you to connect with me on social media so you can receive frequent updates on the work I am doing in Congress through Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 

In your service, Steven