Peace Officers Memorial Day is held annually in the United States on May 15 in honor of federal, state, and local officers who were killed or disabled in the line of duty. It is observed in conjunction with Police Week.

Is Peace Officers Memorial Day a Public Holiday?
Peace Officers Memorial Day is not a public holiday. Businesses have normal opening hours.

What Do People Do?
Many people pay tribute to officers who lost their lives or were injured on the job. According to Concerns of Police Survivors (COPS), about 140–160 officers are killed in the line of duty each year.

• Flags are lowered in remembrance.

• Police departments may hold memorial ceremonies.

• The Fraternal Order of Police organizes a national memorial service in Washington, DC, followed by a wreath placement at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial.

• People are reminded to remain vigilant against crime.

Public Life
Although it’s a solemn observance, it is not a federal holiday. Some may take extra time during the day, such as an extended lunch break, to attend memorial services.

Background

• Congress requested the creation of Peace Officers Memorial Day on October 1, 1961.

• President John F. Kennedy signed it into law on October 1, 1962.

• Each year, the U.S. President proclaims May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week of May 15 as Police Week.

• On this day, flags on all government buildings are flown at half-staff.