For those of you who don’t know, National Police Week is May 13 through May 19. As a police wife, I witness the sacrifices these heroes make every single day — whether it’s getting called in early on their only day off that week, missing dinner because they get a call five minutes before their shift ends and now have to stay late, working a 12-hour overnight shift and taking a quick “nap” so they can make it to court on time, or relying on FaceTime to tell their children good night because they can’t be there to tuck them in. The selflessness and dedication these men and women exude is overwhelming. During National Police Week, I encourage everyone to take a moment to thank an officer. How can you do that? Here are five easy ways to thank a cop:

1) Simply say, “Thank you!” to them. It might not seem like much, but I promise it will make their day.

2) Pray. For officers, for their families, for your community. We need it and appreciate it more than you know.

3) Teach your children to respect officers. Teach them that they are the good guys and do not threaten to call the cops when they are bad. This is not what they are for. Have your children deliver thank you cards to the local police department!

4) Back the blue. Wear blue to honor our fallen heroes. Switch out your boring front porch light for a blue one. Fly the thin blue line flag. Be proud!

5) Donuts. Yes, I went there. Did you think that was a stereotype? Police officers love donuts — or really any type of food.

Kari Charboneau

Albert Lea