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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
RESOLUTION HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF POLICE OFFICER JAMES F. KNAPP
WHEREAS, Police Officer James F. Knapp faithfully served the residents of Cook County as a member of the Cook County Sheriff’s Police Department for sixteen (16) years, demonstrating unwavering commitment to public safety and the protection of others; and
WHEREAS, on January 4, 2006, Officer James F. Knapp tragically lost his life in the line of duty following a traffic collision while en route to his assigned roll call at the Sheriff’s Police office in Bridgeview, Illinois; and
WHEREAS, Officer Knapp served with distinction as a Field Training Officer (FTO) and HBT Operator, contributing not only to public safety operations but also to the mentorship, development, and preparedness of fellow officers; and
WHEREAS, Officer Knapp’s sacrifice was formally recognized as a Line of Duty Death, and his legacy is permanently memorialized at the Illinois Police Officers Memorial in Springfield, Illinois, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C., and through the Officer Down Memorial Page; and
WHEREAS, the loss of Officer Knapp represents not only the loss of a dedicated public servant, but also a profound sacrifice made by his family, colleagues, and the broader Cook County community; and
WHEREAS, it is both fitting and proper that Cook County formally recognize the service, sacrifice, and enduring legacy of Officer Knapp, ensuring that his contributions are never forgotten and that future generations understand the cost of public service; and
WHEREAS, the proposed honorary designation of a portion of 76th Avenue, from 100th Place to 103rd Street in the Village of Bridgeview, as “Honorary Police Officer James Knapp Way” serves as a lasting tribute to his life and duty; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners does hereby honor the life, service, and sacrifice of Police Officer James F. Knapp, and expresses its deepest gratitude for his dedication to the people of Cook County; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board supports and recognizes the honorary designation of the identified roadway in Bridgeview, Illinois, as “Honorary Police Officer James Knapp Way,” as a permanent symbol of remembrance and respect; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Officer James F. Knapp and to the Cook County Sheriff’s Office as an expression of the County’s enduring appreciation and solemn recognition of his sacrifice.
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