New Canaan Police for the first time ever this year participated in the National Law Enforcement Week ceremonies in Washington, D.C.
Each year, the week-long service memorializes the nation's officers who gave their lives in the line of duty through a number of ceremonies, including the monument inscription of all the names of officers who gave everything during service. In 2012, there were 120.
"It was something we hadn't done before and it was important for us to show our fellow officers support," said Sgt. John DiFederico, who attended the ceremonies. "I'm glad we could do it as a department."
New Canaan PD's Honor Guard group visited D.C. accompanied by Lauren Martin, widow to officer James Martin, who died in the line of duty in New Canaan in 1991.
Departments from across the country joined in, from the LAPD to Topeka, Kansas, and even some from outside it, with canadian troopers participating as well. Events included a candlelight vigil and speech by President Barack Obama.
"It wasn't a very long speech, but I think it was important for the president to take time out of his obviously busy schedule to show his support," DiFederico said.
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