​September 17 to 24 marks the third annual National Security Officer Appreciation Week, an opportunity to say thanks to security officers working across the United States.

“We must all recognize and be grateful for the continual contributions of security professionals, who not only are often the first line of defense against natural disasters, civil unrest, violence, and terrorist attacks, but who can also provide a friendly face and welcoming gesture in a time of need,” wrote AlliedUniversal CEO Steve Jones in a blog post. 

There are approximately 1.1 million security officers employed in the United States with a projected employment growth of 5 percent from 2014 to 2024, according to a U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics analysis from May 2016. 

“Our community protectors and guardians are sometimes put in high-risk situations as they confront and detain criminals engaged in theft, trespassing, gang activity, and other criminal activity,” Jones explained. “They also save countless lives by administering CPR…they offer peace of mind by finding your lost car key or ID that fell out of your pocket, or by simply delivering a ‘have a nice day,’ as you leave the office.”

To show its appreciation for the work these individuals do, AlliedUniversal created National Security Officer Appreciation Week in 2015 to encourage others to “say thank you” and recognize security officers’ contributions to maintaining safe and secure workplaces, schools, and communities.

“Security officers are hard-working, highly trained men and women who are our country’s first responders,” AlliedUniversal said in a press release. “These individuals deter crime, lead evacuations, provide information, work closely with local law enforcement, and are constantly vigilant in their efforts to keep us safe.”

To participate and show your appreciation for security officers this week, thank an officer in person and also on social media by using the hashtag #ThankYouSecurity.​