National Police Week
Honor fallen officers and support law enforcement during National Police Week! This week pays tribute to police officers who died in the line of duty and recognizes all officers who serve and protect American communities with courage and dedication.
About National Police Week
Honor fallen officers and support law enforcement during National Police Week! This week pays tribute to police officers who died in the line of duty and recognizes all officers who serve and protect American communities with courage and dedication.
History & origins
National Police Week is a U.S. observance that dates to 1962, when President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation tied to a joint resolution of Congress establishing May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which it falls as Police Week. It is most closely associated with Washington, D.C., where memorial events honor law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty. The observance also grew around the annual National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service, which began in 1982 and became a central part of the week.
Why it matters
National Police Week matters because it recognizes both the sacrifice of fallen officers and the daily work of the people who respond to emergencies, investigate crimes, and help keep communities safe. It also gives families, agencies, and the public a shared time to remember line-of-duty deaths, support survivors, and reflect on the pressures of law enforcement service.
How to celebrate
Thank police officers for their service. Attend memorial ceremonies for fallen officers. Support police families and survivors. Learn about law enforcement challenges. Display blue lights or ribbons. Share appreciation on social media.
Facts
- Over 800,000 sworn officers serve in US law enforcement
- National Police Week has been observed since 1962
- May 15th is Peace Officers Memorial Day
- The National Law Enforcement Memorial honors fallen officers
- Police work is physically and emotionally demanding
Upcoming dates
- Sunday, May 10, 2026
- Monday, May 10, 2027
- Wednesday, May 10, 2028
- Thursday, May 10, 2029
- Friday, May 10, 2030
Frequently asked questions
When is National Police Week in 2026?
National Police Week in 2026 begins on Sunday, May 10, 2026, and is observed during the week that includes Peace Officers Memorial Day.
What is National Police Week?
National Police Week is a U.S. observance that honors law enforcement officers, especially those who died in the line of duty. It combines memorial events with public recognition of officers who serve communities every day.
Who started National Police Week?
National Police Week was established in 1962 through a proclamation by President John F. Kennedy after Congress authorized the observance. Its modern memorial traditions are strongly associated with the Fraternal Order of Police and the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund.
How do you celebrate National Police Week?
You can thank officers, attend memorial services, and support the families of fallen officers. Many communities also use blue ribbons, blue lights, or social media posts to show appreciation.
Is National Police Week the same as Peace Officers Memorial Day?
No, Peace Officers Memorial Day is May 15, while National Police Week is the full week that includes it. The day is the memorial observance; the week broadens the recognition to all law enforcement service.
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