Derby residents see them driving throughout their neighborhoods.

They see them in and around Derby’s schools helping to keep students safe as they head to school.

They see them patrolling Derby’s streets to keep everybody safe.

“But there are many other things that the Derby Police Department does that too often goes unnoticed,” Chaplain Ben Ray, of First Presbyterian Church in Derby, said.

The week of May 11 to 17 is National Police Week, which began on Oct. 1, 1962 when President John F. Kennedy signed a law stating that the week containing May 15 be considered National Police Week.

May 15 is also designated as National Peace Officers  Memorial Day.

“We in Derby appreciate the work that our police department does and we would like to offer you the chance to show your support as well,” Ray said.

Police appreciation signs have been purchased in the past and will be available for purchase again this year.

The signs are to be displayed in our yards during May 11 to 17.

Signs may be purchased at the Derby Police Department (DPD), First Presbyterian Church at 324 N. Baltimore Ave., and Pleasantview Baptist Church at 1335 N. Buckner.

Derby’s Police Appreciation Week will begin with an appreciation banquet for DPD employees and their families.

This year, the banquet will be coordinated by Rev. Dr. Donald D. Mayberry, Derby Police Chaplain and pastor of Pleasantview Baptist Church.

The banquet will be held the evening of Monday, May 12. Due to space limitations, banquet attendance will be invitation only.

Many area merchants have already contributed goods and services from local businesses to be used as give-away prizes at the banquet.

Derby residents who are interested in making a cash donation to help with expenses for the banquet, or providing a gift for the drawings to be held, should contact Mayberry at Pleasantview or Ray at First Presbyterian.