Hempstead Town Supervisor Laura Gillen joined Nassau County Police Commissioner Pat Ryder, Nassau County Sheriff Vera Flood, Town Board members and surviving family members from C.O.P.S (Concerns of Police Survivors) to raise law enforcement’s “Thin Blue Line Flag,” in honor of National Police Week in front of Hempstead Town Hall.

This weekend, tens of thousands of law enforcement officers from around the world will converge on Washington D.C., including many local police officers and survivors, to honor those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice, or have been disabled, in the line of duty.  

The raising of the flag, which features a thin blue line that cuts across a black background, pays homage to police officers who bravely separate “order from chaos,” and is a symbol of solidarity amongst officers and their families.

“It’s more important than ever to stand with law enforcement, as we’ve seen them come under the threat of gangs who have recently made multiple threats against Hempstead police officers,” Gillen said. “We’re sending a message that we stand with law enforcement, stronger communities and safer streets.”