George Herbert Walker Bush

“ Whether intervening in a violent domestic dispute, apprehending a suspected drug dealer, or assisting at the site of a traffic accident, law enforcement officers are often required to make split-second decisions that could mean the difference between life and death. Therefore, in addition to knowledge of criminal statutes and fundamental rules of procedure, law enforcement training encompasses basic skills on which an officer's survival and other human lives depend. ”

“ As law enforcement agencies employ increasingly sophisticated technology and techniques in the fight against crime, the need for highly specialized education and training continues to increase as well. Today an officer's training in traditional investigative methods may also include more advanced studies in ballistics, toxicology, computer science, psychology, and other complex fields. For the veteran as well as the rookie, for the administrator behind the desk as well as the officer on the beat—continuing education and training are essential to meeting new challenges in police work. ”

“ All Americans benefit from programs that contribute to the knowledge, professionalism, and skill of our Nation's law enforcement officers, and this week we gratefully salute the dedicated individuals whose instruction and guidance assist officers in the performance of their duties. ”