Around 50 Federal Way residents stood together Jan. 24 at 320th and Pacific Highway S. expressing their appreciation for police.

Participants held printed signs saying, “we are proud of our police,” “we support the blue,” “honk if you support the police,” “We respect our police” and “thank You Federal Way Police Department.

Federal Way resident Maureen Bernardy said she put on the event because she is grateful for all police do for the citizens.

“The response from the public was simply awesome,” she said. “Three words to describe the turnout would be unity, respect, loud.”

Police officers reported being pleased and touched by this show of respect.

“We have incredibly dedicated officers and staff who risk their safety every day to protect our citizens,” said Andy Hwang, chief of police. “What has sustained us during difficult times has been knowing that we have the support from our citizens.”