05/11/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: May 11, 2025
National Police Week: Honoring and Remembering
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This week, you may see our police officers wearing shrouds over their badges, as this is National Police Week, when we pause to honor and remember the brave men and women in law enforcement who gave their lives in the line of duty while serving and protecting their communities.
National Police Week was established in 1962 when President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which it falls as National Police Week. Since that time, communities across the nation have come together each year to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to others.
This week is more than a recognition of the profession; it is a time of reflection, gratitude, and remembrance. Across the City of Monte Vista, throughout the San Luis Valley, across the State of Colorado, and throughout the United States, law enforcement agencies stand united in honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Here in Monte Vista, we proudly remember our own fallen officers:
• Night Marshal Clyde Lewis McDonald - End of Watch: December 12, 1921
• Assistant Chief Guy Everett O’Neal - End of Watch: October 23, 1953
Their sacrifice and dedication to this community will never be forgotten.
National Police Week also serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made daily by law enforcement officers and their families. Behind every badge is a commitment to serve others, often in difficult and dangerous circumstances, with professionalism, courage, and integrity.
On behalf of the Monte Vista Police Department, I ask our community to join us this week in remembering the fallen, supporting the families they left behind, and recognizing the men and women who continue to serve our communities each day.
We honor the fallen. We remember their sacrifice. We will never forget.
Charles Schoepflin
Interim Chief of Police
Monte Vista Police Department
