National Law Enforcement Memorial Day

A group of law enforcement officers standing together in uniform, saluting in front of a peaceful American flag backdrop.. — National law enforcement memorial day illustration

Hey there! Are you ready to unleash your inner detective? Well, get out your magnifying glass and put on your detective hat because today we're celebrating National Law Enforcement Memorial Day! This is a day to honor and remember the brave men and women who have lost their lives in the line of duty. So, let's dive into the history of this memorable day.

When is Law Enforcement Memorial Day?

It's national law enforcement memorial day on the 15th May.

The Birth of National Law Enforcement Memorial Day

On this special day, we pay tribute to all the law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their communities. National Law Enforcement Memorial Day was officially established by President John F. Kennedy in 1962. However, the idea of honoring fallen officers dates back even further.

In 1961, Congress passed a joint resolution calling on the President to designate May 15th as Peace Officers Memorial Day. It was later expanded to become National Police Week, a week-long event held each year to honor law enforcement officers from across the United States. The focal point of Police Week is the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C., which serves as a tribute to those officers who have died in the line of duty.

Honoring the Fallen Heroes

Each year, thousands of law enforcement officers and their families, as well as supporters from around the country, gather in Washington, D.C., for a series of events to honor the fallen heroes. These events include a candlelight vigil, a memorial service, and a police unity tour. The candlelight vigil, held at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial, is a solemn and emotional ceremony where the names of fallen officers are read aloud.

During National Law Enforcement Memorial Day, communities across the nation also hold their own memorial events to remember the fallen officers who served and protected their cities and towns. These events provide an opportunity for the public to show their appreciation and support for the men and women in blue.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial features the names of over 22,000 officers who have died in the line of duty? It's a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by these brave individuals and serves as a lasting tribute to their memory.

History behind the term 'Law Enforcement Memorial'

1962

Creation of National Police Week

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15th as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which it falls as National Police Week. This step aimed to honor and remember law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

1962

Formation of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15th as Peace Officers Memorial Day. This proclamation also established the week in which May 15th falls as National Police Week. The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) was formed around this time to honor law enforcement officers who lost their lives in the line of duty.

1962

Creation of National Police Memorial Day

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15th as National Police Memorial Day. This day was established to honor and remember law enforcement officers who lost their lives in the line of duty. It served as a way to recognize the sacrifices made by these brave individuals and express gratitude for their service.

1984

Establishment of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial

In 1984, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial was established in Washington, D.C. This memorial serves as a tribute to all those who have fallen in the line of duty, including federal, state, and local law enforcement officers. The memorial features the names of over 22,000 officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their communities, engraved on a series of marble walls. It stands as a powerful symbol of remembrance, unity, and gratitude for the law enforcement community.

1982

Construction of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial

In 1982, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) was established to build a memorial to honor law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty. The organization's mission was to create a physical tribute that would recognize the sacrifice and dedication of these brave men and women.

1970

Construction of a Memorial Wall

In 1970, work began to create a memorial wall in Washington, D.C. to honor fallen law enforcement officers. The memorial would serve as a solemn and powerful tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of those who dedicate their lives to upholding the law and protecting their communities.

1996

Creation of National Police Week

In 1996, President Bill Clinton signed into law a resolution designating the week in which May 15th falls as National Police Week. The week-long observance includes various events and activities aimed at honoring law enforcement officers and their contributions to society. It provides an opportunity for communities to come together and show support for those who protect and serve.

1991

Dedication of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial

On October 15, 1991, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial was dedicated in Washington, D.C. It is located in Judiciary Square and serves as a lasting tribute to the more than 22,000 law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice throughout U.S. history.

1981

Unveiling of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial

On October 15, 1981, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial was unveiled in Washington, D.C. The memorial consists of two curving, 304-foot-long, 22-foot-high marble walls, inscribed with the names of more than 22,000 officers who have died in the line of duty throughout American history.

1994

Expansion of National Police Week

In 1994, National Police Week expanded beyond the initial Peace Officers Memorial Day and was extended to the entire week in which May 15th falls. This allowed for a more comprehensive recognition of the contributions and sacrifices made by law enforcement officers.

1991

Expanding the Memorial

In 1991, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial was expanded to include a Museum. The National Law Enforcement Museum provides educational programs and exhibits to promote a better understanding and appreciation of law enforcement's role in society. It serves as a lasting testament to the sacrifice and service of law enforcement officers.

1997

Expansion of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial

In 1997, an expansion of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial was completed, adding additional names and space for future additions. This expansion ensures that the memorial can continue to honor and remember fallen officers for generations to come. The solemn beauty of the memorial serves as a poignant reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face daily and the importance of their service in maintaining public safety.

2015

Addition of Names to the Memorial

Since its dedication, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial has continued to evolve. Names of fallen officers are added to the memorial each year to ensure their legacies are preserved and honored. This ongoing act of remembrance ensures that the sacrifice of law enforcement officers is never forgotten.

2007

Addition of Officer Statues

In 2007, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial gained another poignant feature - a series of life-size statues depicting law enforcement officers engaged in various duty-related activities. These statues further humanize the memorial, allowing visitors to reflect on the individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice.

2020

Continued Recognition and Remembrance

Law enforcement memorials continue to be an important part of honoring the fallen officers. Communities across the United States hold annual ceremonies and special events during National Police Week, which is observed in May. The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial and its related activities provide a space for reflection, remembrance, and appreciation for the sacrifices made by those in law enforcement.