With Gov. Mark Dayton’s proclamation of Law Enforcement Appreciation Day on Monday, we’d like to thank all of our area law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line every day to protect us.

We and the governor recognize the service and sacrifice of the men and women in law enforcement who not only enforce laws, but help keep our communities safe and respond in times of need.

According to the governor’s office, Minnesota is home to more than 10,000 law enforcement officials. The state was fortunate not to have a lost a single law enforcement officer in the line of duty in 2016, though across the country, 138 officers died.

Officers respond to a variety of calls, including car crashes, fires, medical calls and reports of abuse, violence and drugs.

We thank them for their bravery and their determination to help protect our communities.

Next time you see officers out in the community, don’t forget to thank them, too.