What is National Police Week?
National Police Week is a collaborative effort of many organizations dedicated to honoring America’s law enforcement community. It occurs every May beginning in 1962 when President John Kennedy proclaimed May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the calendar week in which May 15 falls, as National Police Week.
Established by a joint resolution of Congress in 1962, National Police Week pays special recognition to those law enforcement officers who lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others. The week is commemorated by a number of inspiring live events including a candlelight vigil held by the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund to honor fallen officers whose names were recently added to the Memorial.
There are many reasons to appreciate the brave men and women in law enforcement. More often than not, the hard and dangerous work that they do goes unnoticed and unrecognized. Most people don’t really think about what police do every day in their community until they need assistance from them. When you see a police officer, consider thanking him or her for their service.