Police Officers Memorial Day May 15

The week of May 14 thru May 20^th, 2023 marks National Police Week which is a collaborative effort of many organizations that are committed to the honor, remembrance, and peer support of law enforcement. President John F. Kennedy designated May 15^th as Peace Officers Memorial Day in 1962 and subsequently the week in which that date falls was dubbed Police Week. National Police Week typically draws up to 40,000 attendees to Washington D.C. from departments throughout the United States and worldwide agencies providing a distinctive opportunity to meet and discuss topics with fellow law enforcement personnel. This week also pays special tribute to those officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty while serving and protecting their communities.

National Police Week offers a full schedule of events in Washington D.C. such as wreath laying, a candlelight vigil, a memorial march, as well as conferences for family members of fallen officers. If you are unable to visit Washington D.C. for the week you can support National Police Week from home by displaying a thin blue line.  The thin blue line flag represents the ideals of justice and freedom along with solidarity amongst law enforcement. Another way to show appreciation for officers is by visiting your local police station and handing out appreciation bags of store bought and sealed products. All too often police officers do not receive the recognition they deserve so even a word of kindness can go a long way into showing them they are appreciated.