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Honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice

National Police Week, May 12-18, pays recognition to those law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the protection of others. Find out why officers should attend Police Week, learn how to honor the fallen and read moving words about the sacrifice made by fallen officers.

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Police officers and LE supporters explain why attending Police Week matters while LEOs stand watch for the fallen at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial
FAQ: National Police Week

What is National Police Week?

National Police Week is an annual observance in the United States that honors law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Established in 1962 by President John F. Kennedy, it encompasses Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15 and the week in which that date falls. The week features memorial services, vigils and events that pay tribute to fallen officers and support their families.

When is National Police Week 2025?

In 2025, National Police Week will be observed from Sunday, May 11, to Saturday, May 17. Key events include the 37th Annual Candlelight Vigil on Tuesday, May 13, and the National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service on Thursday, May 15.

What is the National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service?

The National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service is a formal ceremony held annually on May 15 to honor law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty. Organized by the Grand Lodge Fraternal Order of Police, the service takes place on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., and includes speeches, musical tributes and the presentation of memorial wreaths.

Why do people wear blue on May 15?

Wearing blue on May 15 is a gesture of solidarity and respect for law enforcement officers on Peace Officers Memorial Day. Blue symbolizes law enforcement, and this tradition honors officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

Should I fly the flag at half-staff on May 15?

Yes. The United States flag may be flown at half-staff by Presidential Proclamation or by order of a state’s governor, according to National Police Week. By statute, the president is directed each year to issue a proclamation calling for government buildings to lower the flag to half-staff on May 15, Peace Officers Memorial Day, and inviting the people of the United States to do the same.

How can I support law enforcement during National Police Week?

Support can be shown in various ways:

  • Attend Memorials: Participate in local or national memorial services.
  • Volunteer: Offer time to organizations supporting law enforcement families.
  • Donate: Contribute to funds that assist fallen officers’ families.
  • Educate: Share information about the sacrifices of law enforcement officers.

For more information, visit the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund.

What is the Candlelight Vigil during National Police Week?

The Candlelight Vigil is a solemn event held annually during National Police Week to honor fallen law enforcement officers. In 2025, the 37th Annual Candlelight Vigil will take place on Tuesday, May 13, at 8:00 p.m. on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. The ceremony includes the reading of names of officers who died in the line of duty and serves as a poignant reminder of their sacrifice.

COMPLETE COVERAGE
National Police Week finds its roots in 1962 when President John F. Kennedy signed Proclamation 3466, designating May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day
The 345 names include 148 officers killed in 2024, spanning federal, state, local, tribal, territorial, campus and military agencies
The award winners will be recognized during Police Weekend, showcasing efforts from traffic safety to comprehensive wellness initiatives
The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund will hold a variety of events – including many that are open to the public – from Sept. 27-29
The agency provides resources for officers’ physical, mental, financial and spiritual health — and recently received the Destination Zero Award for its comprehensive program
“Being a police officer is not just what you do, it’s who you are…” President Joe Biden said. “…this extended family [of other law enforcement officers] will always be here for you.”
Not only does playing the bagpipes relieve stress, it can also bring a much needed sense of purpose
“We lost the future of our family,” Ruge’s mother said. “I just didn’t lose my 27-year-old son, I lost my 37-year-old son and my 47-year-old son and my 57-year-old son. I lost the kids that he was going to have... I lost all of that”
These teams come together to honor the memory of fallen officers and demonstrate their skills in ceremonial duties
In a heartfelt tribute, the Chicago Police Department honored fallen officers Aréanah Preston and Andrés Vásquez-Lasso