The Los Angeles Police Commission voted today to establish a medal for officers killed or seriously injured in the line of duty.

The five-member panel that oversees the Los Angeles Police Department voted unanimously in favor of the LAPD Purple Heart Medal. The vote followed discussion by commission members about the criteria for the award and concerns of some that the standards be set high to avoid diluting its significance.

Commissioner Alan Skobin, who spearheaded the idea, said the medal is "a strong statement about [the commission's] appreciation for the sacrifices our officers and their families make, day in and day out."

"Today, we righted a wrong," he added, referring to earlier, unsuccessful efforts to create the medal. "This is fulfilling a promise that we're not going to forget what these officers have done."

Officers previously injured and the families of those killed are eligible for the medal.Commission and department officials estimate that about five officers each year will be awarded the medal.