Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week is an observance in the United States that pays tribute to the local, state, and federal peace officers who have died, or who have been disabled, in the line of duty. It is celebrated May 15th of each year. The event is sponsored by the National Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) and is implemented by the FOP Memorial Committee.
The holiday was created on October 1, 1961, when Congress authorized the president to designate May 15 to honor peace officers. John F. Kennedy signed the bill into law on October 1, 1962. The proclamation was signed by President Kennedy.
In 1994, President Bill Clinton directed, through Public Law 103-322, that the United States flag be flown at half-staff on May 15 to honor the day.
We did not want the upcoming observance of Peace Officers Memorial Day to go without some attention, and for individuals to know about the expanded definition. If you are so moved, please lower the flag at your home to half-staff on May 15, light a candle for the brave peace officers who have been injured or killed in the line of duty, or support a charity that backs peace officers and supports the families of officers killed in the line of duty.
Enjoy your week!
Laura Goguet
Community Manager