This National Police Week, we honor the brave men and women wearing uniforms who serve and protect our communities. Michigan law enforcement officers serve with courage, selflessness, and an unwavering commitment to justice. For many, this week is not just a remembrance or recognition—it is personal.

Deputy Sheriff Bradley J. Reckling was a dedicated member of the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office who tragically lost his life in the line of duty on June 22, 2024.

Deputy Reckling was a husband, father, and public servant. His ultimate sacrifice to protect our community deserves a special tribute. His memory is an inspiration. We will never forget his service and are forever thankful for the sacrifice of the loved ones he left behind.

National Police Week honors heroes like him.

The tireless work of law enforcement officers makes our communities safer.

As a Member of Congress representing Michigan and a sheriff serving on the front lines, we understand the challenges that officers face—underfunded departments, rising crime, and increasing threats. That’s why House Republicans continue to prioritize policies to support law enforcement, strengthen public safety, and ensure officers have the resources they need to do their jobs effectively.

One step forward was passing the Agent Raul Gonzalez Officer Safety Act. This bill gives law enforcement authorities the tools to fully prosecute and punish criminals who evade law enforcement officers near our borders with harsher penalties. As we work to end the border crisis, law enforcement should be assured that their safety is of the utmost importance as they put their lives on the line.

This Congress, the House also passed legislation to combat the fentanyl crisis by giving law enforcement better tools to detect and seize dangerous synthetic drugs. Officers in our communities are encountering fentanyl at alarming rates, often at great personal risk. As Oakland County Sheriff, I have seen firsthand the devastation that fentanyl inflicts—not only on those struggling with addiction but also on the families and communities left in its wake. These new tools are vital to saving lives and dismantling drug networks that prey on the vulnerable.

During National Police Week, the House of Representatives will vote on three pieces of legislation to further support law enforcement, both during and after their service. One of these bills, the Improving Law Enforcement Officer Safety and Wellness Through Data Act, will strengthen protections for law enforcement officers by enhancing data collection on attacks against police. Understanding the scope and scale of these attacks is vital to crafting policies that enhance officer safety and bring criminals to justice.

Supporting law enforcement should never be a partisan issue. The safety of our neighborhoods, schools, and families depends on well-trained and well-equipped officers who have the trust and backing of their communities and the federal government. National Police Week is a reminder not just to honor the fallen but also to stand with those who continue to serve.

Deputy Reckling’s legacy lives on in the brothers and sisters in blue who walk the beat every day.

We are proud to stand with them, to fight for them in Congress and in the field, and to ensure they always know they are not alone.

May God bless our law enforcement officers and keep them safe.

House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain represents Michigan’s 9th Congressional District. Sheriff Michael Bouchard serves as Sheriff of Oakland County.