By Cong. Mike Gallagher

This week, Americans across the country came together to celebrate National Police Week. At a time when harmful anti-cop rhetoric is on the rise, these celebrations served as an important way to honor the brave men and women of law enforcement who put their lives on the line to protect our communities.

Here in Northeast Wisconsin, we’re lucky to have some of the best law enforcement professionals in the country. Chief Thomas in Appleton and Chief Smith in Green Bay (who just retired last week after 33 years of distinguished service) are just two examples of the kind of incredible leadership we’ve had, particularly over the course of the past year.

As your Congressman, I’ll always back the blue, which is why I’ve taken time over the past few weeks to meet with some of our local law enforcement professionals and express my sheer gratitude for their work. From Outagamie County to Shawano County and Waupaca to Green Bay, officers like Sheriff Clint Kriewaldt and Waupaca Police Chief Brian Hoelzel have reminded us just how blessed we are to have some of the best police officers in the country.

Having safe communities is part of what makes Northeast Wisconsin the best place to live in the country. As this National Police Week comes to a close, be sure to thank a cop for all they do, and all they will continue to do, to protect our neighborhoods.