(Editor’s Note: The following column was submitted by Sen. Mary Kiffmeyer.)

On Sunday, Jan. 9, our nation observed a day of recognition of the National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, in support of the great bravery and dedication of our law enforcement officers to the citizens they serve. 

While this day is set aside each year to honor the work of law enforcement officers, it is imperative to never forget the daily sacrifices they make to preserve the safety of our cities, state and its citizens. These men and women in uniform selflessly answered a call to public service that is demanding and often unacknowledged. 

One such officer is Sgt. Tim Jeanetta, who recently retired from the Sherburne County Sheriff’s Office after 26 years of full-time service. Sgt. Jeanetta’s many years of public service offers an inspiring example of career well spent in the commitment to and protection of others.

Especially now, it is critical for our law enforcement officers to know that their sacrifices do not go unnoticed and are appreciated. 

As noted in the recent Star Tribune letter to the editor by Ryan Sheehan, Roseville, “Resolving this crime surge is not complex. Bad people do bad things. Police arrest them. You prosecute them to the full extent of the law so that judges can put them in jail where they serve their time and – this is the most important part – can’t commit more crimes.” 

The work of our law enforcement officers is key to maintaining law and order and addressing our state’s rise in crime. It critical for weak prosecutors and judges to be held responsible for the role they play in keeping our communities safe. 

Thank you to all our law enforcement who tirelessly work to protect the security of others. Next time you see an officer, I also encourage you to thank them for their service.

Another that is deserving of our thanks are the members of the National Guard. These members have taken on unprecedented and demanding tasks throughout the pandemic to address the evolving needs our communities.

To address long-term care and nursing facilities worker shortages we are currently experiencing across Minnesota, around 400 members of the National Guard are being trained as certified nursing assistants (CNAs) to meet this critical demand.  

CNAs serve as patient caregivers and aid them in activities they would have difficulty accomplishing on their own, such as getting dressed and bathing. National Guard members take all required classes and exams, and, therefore, hold a regular CNA license. This allows the members to seamlessly keep their CNA license in their civilian life after they leave the service. 

I applaud the National Gaud members who have taken on this hopefully short-term essential role to support the growing needs of our long-term care and nursing facilities. This is an unusual ask in unusual times. Thank you for your diligent service and dedication to our state and its residents.