Sunday (May 9) marked the beginning of National Police Week. On October 1, 1962, the United States Congress established the week of May as Police Week with May 15 to be Peace Officer Memorial Day as a way to pay tribute to all local, state, and federal law enforcement officers who have been disabled or have died in the line of duty.
A proclamation sent by Congress and signed by President John F. Kennedy officially designates May 15 every year as Peace Officer Memorial Day. Government officials are directed to display at half-staff the flag of the United States on all government buildings on May 15. This is done in recognition of the service given by the men and women who work devotedly and selflessly on behalf of the people of this nation, regardless of the peril or hazard to themselves, and have safeguarded the lives and property of their fellow Americans.
So far this year, the United States has lost 119 law enforcement officers in the line of duty. Sadly, 2020, was the deadliest year for Law Enforcement Deaths with 264 officers killed in the line of duty. This year, National Police Week will be commemorated with virtual events that can be viewed from anywhere in the world. From May 9-15, the National Law Enforcement Memorial and Museum will deliver programs to keep current officers safe and healthy, as well as ceremonies to honor those fallen officers whose names have been recently added to the Memorial.
In-person events are planned for October 13-17, 2021, in Washington, DC to offer the same respect, honor, remembrance, and community support as National Police Week, while allowing law enforcement, survivors, and citizens to gather and pay tribute to those who gave their lives in the line of duty.
During this week, West Plains Police Department Chief of Police Stephen Monticelli asks the community to take the time to remember those officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country, state and community as well as thanking the officers who continue to serve and protect.
