Council proclaims National Police Week

Provided by the City of Tehachapi.

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy originally declared the week of May 15 as National Police Week ... a time to honor those officers who have given their lives in the line of duty.

Currently the week is used to give thanks to the men and women who serve daily, putting their lives in jeopardy to protect the community. During their May 6 meeting, the Tehachapi City Council proclaimed the week of May 12 - 18 as National Police Week in Tehachapi. It should be noted that Tehachapi has lost two officers in the line of duty during the history of the city: Constable Thomas Godwin was shot and killed on Oct. 22, 1876 by a man holding a grudge following an arrest, and Chief William Terrell Mantoth who was shot and killed Aug. 11, 1968 pursuing a kidnap and rape suspect.

In honor of National Police Week, the men and women of the Tehachapi Police Department stood with the members of the City Council for a group photograph.

The Tehachapi City Council meets on the first and third Monday of the month at 6 p.m. They are currently meeting at the Police Department Community Room, 220 W. C St.