Contact: Colleen Roche (212) 788-2958 or Marilyn Mode (212) 374-6700
"Today we honor the courage and dedication of New York City Police Officers who have died in the line of duty," Mayor Giuliani said. "Each police officer on the roll of honor adhered to the highest standards of duty and professionalism -- the highest standards of the New York City Police Department. Their legacy of courage and sacrifice was, and will always be, the foundation of this great police force. When police officers joins the force, they know the risks involved. The police officers we salute today, honored us with their unshakable commitment to public service. They lost their lives to protect the people of this City.
"Last May, when Anthony Sanchez and his partner Roy Ruland and three other officers responded to an armed robbery call, they did not hesitate," the Mayor continued. "Police Officer Sanchez was shot and killed as he attempted to apprehend the robbery suspect. This selfless act follows a career in which he repeatedly put the safety of others before his own. In his ten years as a police officer, Anthony earned 15 medals, three for Meritorious Police Duty, and twelve for Excellent Police Duty."
"Anthony Sanchez was an exceptional police officer who was respected and loved by all who knew him -- his commanding officer, his partner, fellow police officers, the community he served and his family and friends. When we honor Police Officer Sanchez, we also honor his wife Elizabeth, his son John, and his parents Antonio and Loretta. The Sanchez family, too, has made the ultimate sacrifice. The people of this City will always remember this and we will stand by them today, tomorrow and every day after that. They have given so much to the City and we will be there for them in return," the Mayor concluded.
Police Commissioner Safir said, "Today, we honor the memory of the most valiant of officers -- those who have given their lives for the people of New York City. There can be no greater gift than to willingly put one's self in harm's way so that others may be safe. This is what we ask of our Police Officers every day. This day is set aside in fulfillment of a promise to never forget those officers who have made the supreme sacrifice."
Also honored today was Patrolman Thomas Gilbert. "As we honor the memories and heroism of police officers that will be preserved forever on the roll of honor, we are here to recall the legacy of patrolman Thomas Gilbert. Patrolman Gilbert was killed in the line of duty when he was struck by an automobile on November 18, 1918. Patrolman Gilbert served with honor and distinction during his 17 years with the Traffic Division of the Department. Today, as we place his name on the roll of honor, we accord the proper dignity and respect to one of New York's Finest," the Mayor said.
In 1963, President John F. Kennedy proclaimed May 15th of 1963 and each succeeding year as Police Officers Memorial Day, and the calendar week during which May 15th falls as Police Week.