National Law Enforcement Appriciation Day

Young police officer in uniform, standing in front of a police car, American flag in background, sunny city setting.. — National law enforcement appriciation day illustration

Hey there! Are you ready to show some appreciation for the amazing men and women who keep our communities safe? Well, mark your calendars because National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day is coming up! Let's dive into the history of this special day, find out how it's celebrated, and uncover a fun fact along the way.

When is Law Enforcement Appriciation Day?

It's national law enforcement appriciation day on the 9th January.

The Birth of National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day

National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day is observed on January 9th each year. It's a day dedicated to recognizing the hard work and sacrifices made by those who serve in law enforcement, from police officers and sheriffs to detectives and federal agents. This day was first established in 2015 by Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.), a national organization that supports the families of officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

The purpose of National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day is to show gratitude to these brave men and women, express our support, and foster positive relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

How is Law Enforcement Appreciation Day Celebrated?

On this day, people around the country come together to show their appreciation in various ways. Citizens may display blue ribbons, light their homes with blue lights, or change their profile pictures on social media to show solidarity and support.

Many communities organize special events, parades, and ceremonies to honor law enforcement officers. Police departments may host open house events, allowing the public to meet officers and learn more about their work. Local businesses, restaurants, and coffee shops may offer discounts or freebies to uniformed officers as a token of appreciation.

Did You Know?

Law enforcement officers have a distinct code of honor that they uphold. One common tradition among police officers is the swapping of uniform patches with fellow officers from different departments or agencies. This practice creates a sense of camaraderie and brotherhood among the law enforcement community. So next time you see an officer wearing a patch from another city or state, know that it represents a bond that goes beyond their individual jurisdictions.

History behind the term 'Law Enforcement Appriciation'

1962

Creation of National Law Enforcement Week

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15th as National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Day and the week that May 15th falls on as National Police Week. This was done as a way to recognize and honor the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers across the country.

1994

Start of the National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day

In 1994, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, along with other organizations and individuals, began celebrating January 9th as National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. The purpose of this day is to show support and gratitude for the work that law enforcement officers do to keep communities safe.

1998

Expansion of National Police Week

National Police Week, which originally began in 1962, has grown into a series of events and activities held in Washington, D.C. Each year, thousands of law enforcement officers and their families gather in the nation's capital to participate in memorials, ceremonies, and other tributes. This expansion further highlighted the need for a specific day to appreciate law enforcement officers.

2019

Social Media Campaigns and Community Events

In recent years, National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day has gained significant attention through social media campaigns and community events. People express their support by sharing stories of how law enforcement officers have positively impacted their lives or by organizing events that honor and recognize their dedication. This day provides an opportunity for individuals and communities to come together and show their appreciation for law enforcement officers.

Did you know?

Law enforcement officers often swap uniform patches with fellow officers from different departments or agencies as a symbol of camaraderie and brotherhood.