Police Week Pomp and Pageantry...

Every year in May, thousands of law enforcement professionals descend for a week of ceremonies in DC. Legions of cops, in all shapes and sizes, on motorcycles and in antique cars, some with tattoos, some with kilts...they, their friends and family, all gather to pay tribute to lives lost in the line of duty. There are cycling events, motorcycle formations, and antique police car parades throughout town and the surrounding suburbs. At scheduled times, vigils and memorial services interrupt the frenzy.

In the afternoon and into the evenings, bagpiper cops in kilts travel the nearby bars and visit the giant beer tent near the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. They play their dirges as they enter. We turn and stop, raising our cups, bottles and cans. The pipes rest, and we toast. We drink because they can't. We drink to celebrate their bravery. Cheers to you and to those no longer with us.

Tuesday:

(Click here to wave at the cyclists as they ride into town.)

Wednesday:

(Click here to find shelter in the giant beer tent.)