LOS ANGELES (CNS) - A proposal to award a medal similar to the military Purple Heart to Los Angeles police officers injured or killed in the line of duty picked up support today from the union that represents rank-and-file members of the LAPD.

The Police Commission is considering a proposal to create an award equivalent to a Purple Heart for the LAPD. 'The Purple Heart should be implemented immediately. It will speak volumes about the city's concern for the welfare and safety of police officers, in addition to the city's appreciation for the extraordinary sacrifices made by officers and their families,'' said Paul M. Weber, president of the Los Angeles Police Protective League.

Officers who suffer 'traumatic physical injury'' or death at the hands of a suspect should be eligible for the recognition, Weber said.

Last week, Los Angeles City Councilwoman Wendy Greuel introduced a motion in support of the Purple Heart 'to demonstrate our respect and appreciation for the sacrifices of our police officers.''

Her motion was forwarded to the Public Safety Committee.