National Peace Officers Memorial Day

A police officer in uniform, standing tall and proud, against a backdrop of a peaceful cityscape.. — National peace officers memorial day illustration

Hold on to your hats folks, because it's time to delve into the fascinating world of National Peace Officers Memorial Day. Grab yourself a donut and let's take a stroll down memory lane.

When is Peace Officers Memorial Day?

It's national peace officers memorial day on the 15th May.

A Peek into the Past

National Peace Officers Memorial Day is a bit of a mouthful, right? But hey, if it ain't broke, don't fix it. Officially recognized in the stormy year of 1962 by President Kennedy, this day pays a yearly tribute to the local, state, and federal peace officers who have died, or who have been disabled, in the line of duty. It's part of Police Week, so don't be surprised when you see a sea of blue uniforms around mid-May, specifically May 15, which holds the record of the most mentions online in 2018. A whopping 9422 times, to be precise! Who knew people loved their officers so much?

The Donut Day Paradox

While National Donut Day and National Peace Officers Memorial Day may seem like they'd go hand-in-hand (because who doesn't love a good cop-donut joke), they are in fact on different days. Donut manufacturers are still petitioning to move National Donut Day to coincide with our peace officer's day, because yum...synergy!

How You Can Participate

Paying tribute can be as simple as wearing a blue ribbon, visiting a local memorial, or just taking a moment out of your day to remember those that sacrificed for our safety. And if you remember to post about it online, well you might just help set a new record!

History behind the term 'Peace Officers Memorial'

1962

Birth of National Police Week

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy proclaimed May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which it falls as National Police Week. This day and week were established to honor and remember law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty. The intent was to create a time for the nation to show appreciation and support for those who protect and serve their communities.

1971

First Peace Officers Memorial Service

The first Peace Officers Memorial Service was held in 1971, marking the official start of honoring fallen law enforcement officers during National Police Week. This solemn ceremony takes place at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C., where thousands gather to pay tribute to the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting their communities.

1982

The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial

In 1982, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial was dedicated in Judiciary Square, Washington, D.C. The memorial serves as a physical tribute to honor the lives and sacrifices of fallen peace officers. Engraved on its walls are the names of over 22,000 officers who have given their lives in service, dating back to the first known officer death in 1791.

1994

Construction of the National Police Memorial Wall

The construction of the National Police Memorial Wall, an extension of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial, began in 1994. This additional section allowed for the engraving of thousands more names of fallen officers. The expansion helped ensure that the legacy of these heroes is forever remembered and honored.

2000

Addition of the Peace Officers Memorial Day Flag

In the year 2000, the Peace Officers Memorial Day Flag Act was signed into law, designating the creation of a flag to honor Peace Officers Memorial Day. The flag features a thin blue line with a center emblem representing the bravery and sacrifice of law enforcement officers across the United States.

Did you know?

Did you know, not all heroes wear capes? In 2017, according to the FBI, law enforcement made more than 10 million arrests! That's a lot of civil duties.