[WASHINGTON, D.C.] — As President Donald Trump signed the Medal of Sacrifice Act (H.R. 3497) into law on May 28th, Police Officers’ Defense Coalition applauds all of the public servants that supported and made this landmark legislation possible. The Medal of Sacrifice Act honors law enforcement officers and first responders killed in the line of duty with a presidentially awarded Medal of Sacrifice.

Police Officers’ Defense Coalition has proudly endorsed the legislation throughout the legislative process and worked alongside national law enforcement advocates to support its passage through Congress. The legislation was introduced in the House by Rep. Brian Mast (R- FL 21) and championed in the Senate by Sen. Lindsey Graham (R- SC). Senator Graham noted that the bill was developed in coordination with President Trump and Congressman Mast to ensure fallen heroes receive the recognition they deserve. 

The legislation establishes a new national honor presented posthumously by the President of the United States to the families of fallen law enforcement officers and first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving their communities. According to congressional leaders supporting the bill, the legislation was inspired in part by the tragic deaths of Palm Beach County Sheriff’s deputies Ralph “Butch” Waller, Ignacio “Dan” Diaz, and Luis Paez, who were killed in the line of duty. President Trump previously awarded the first Medals of Sacrifice to their families in the Oval Office. 

“This law sends a powerful message that America will never forget the men and women who gave their lives protecting our communities,” said Bert Eyler, President of Police Officers’ Defense Coalition. “The Medal of Sacrifice ensures that the heroism and service of fallen officers and first responders will be permanently recognized at the highest level of our nation.”

The Medal of Sacrifice Act is more than legislation; it is a promise that the courage and sacrifice of our fallen heroes will never be forgotten. 

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About Police Officers’ Defense Coalition:

Police Officers’ Defense Coalition (PODC) identifies and flushes out those elected officials that pretend to represent the people but actually use the unjust prosecution of police officers as a stepping stone to their next higher political office. Politicians are using the War on Cops for their own gain, and making our country even more divided in the process. It’s time we call them out and stand up for what’s right. 

The Police Officers’ Defense Coalition works to bridge the gap and build a movement made up of civilians, active and retired law enforcement officials, and politicians to protect the men and women in blue who serve our communities and our country.