They make up the thin blue line that stands between order and chaos, crime and peace. This week, during National Police Week, we recognize those officers who gave their all in service of their fellow citizens. According to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, 163 police officers lost their lives in the line of duty in 2011.

One Officer Down is One Too Many

To date, 40 police officers have paid the ultimate sacrifice in 2012. The good news is, this is down almost 50 percent from this time last year. The bad news is that even one officer's death is one too many.

Regardless of what you may feel about the role of law enforcement, it's hard not to appreciate the fact that every day, these brave men and women go to work wondering if they will be coming home at the end of their shift.

Remember Fallen Officers

As you go about your week, please take a moment to pause and reflect on the sacrifices your officers make, day in and day out. Remember those who gave their lives, and think about those they left behind.

If you're considering a job in criminology or criminal justice, remember what you may be called to do, and what you may be required to give up.

Thin Blue Line Image Copyright Tim Roufa

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Since September 11, 2001, there has been a lot of discussion in Washington, D.C. and beyond about securing the United States' borders. For nearly 100 years, the United States Border Patrol has been doing just that.

Border patrol agents use old fashioned tracking techniques and sophisticated technology to help prevent illegal border crossings and capture those who would seek to do harm to the U.S.

A career as a U.S. Border Patrol agent can be rewarding in its own right, or it can be a stepping stone to working in another field within federal law enforcement, such as an ICE agent or FBI agent.

• Find out more about a career as a U.S. Border Patrol agent

The border patrol is known for having one of the most difficult law enforcement academies in the country. Strict academic standards are maintained, and all agents must be able to speak Spanish before they complete their training. To be considered for employment, agents must pass a rigorous background investigation, including a polygraph exam.

If you're considering a job in criminology or criminal justice, working as a U.S. Border Patrol Agent may be a great first step or a long lasting and rewarding career.

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Ask just abut anyone who works in law enforcement what they think about the U.S. Marshals Service, and I'll bet you almost to a man they'll tell you they would love to work for them.

The U.S. Marshals Service is perhaps the most storied federal law enforcement agency. It also happens to be the oldest, making it steeped in history and tradition.

Marshals serve as the enforcement arm of the the federal courts system, and are responsible for safeguarding prisoners awaiting trial, protecting witnesses and capturing fugitives.

• Find out more about a career as a deputy U.S. Marshal.

In order to become a U.S. Marshal, you'll have to pass a rigid background investigation and polygraph exam, but it will be worth your effort. Marshals receive good salaries, health and retirement benefits.

I've had the opportunity to work with members of the Marshals Service on a few occasions, and they never fail to impress. If you're interested in working in a federal law enforcement capacity, becoming a U.S. Marshal may be an excellent choice.

What's your dream job? I want to know. Share it by leaving a comment below.

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Fair warning to readers: I am about to open a can of worms. On May 5, the NAACP in Detroit held a symposium for young adults entitled "Stops and Cops: A Youth Survival Guide for Police Encounters."

Disproportionate Justice?

The program was conceived in response to the disproportionate incarceration rate of young African American youth. It was seen by many to be especially timely in light of the shooting death of 17-year-old Trayvon Martin in Sanford, Florida.

Surviving Police Encounters

Police officers, judges, attorneys and youths were brought together for a few hours for the purpose of helping young people learn how to better handle themselves during encounters with the police.

Know Your Rights

"Stops and Cops" was designed to emphasize that young people have both rights and responsibilities when dealing with police officers. The focus was on how to remain polite and respectful while at the same time protecting individual rights in the hopes that cooler heads could prevent needless arrests and potentially violent encounters.

Who Needs Training?

Somewhat surprisingly, a vocal contingent has expressed misgivings about the program, questioning why youth should need to be taught how to deal with officers. In their opinion, the focus should be on training police to deal with young people, not the other way around.

What Do You Think?

So here's the question: can you conceive of behaviors that are inappropriate when dealing with a police officer? A day in the life of a police officer is tough enough as it is, so should police be asked to put up with whatever actions or attitudes a young person displays without taking action? Is there room for improvement on both sides, or is this a one-sided issue? Is this a discussion anyone even needs to be having?

I want to hear what you think. Let me know by leaving a comment below or sending me an email.

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