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Peace Officers Memorial Day

Honoring those who stood unwavering in the face of challenge, dedicating themselves to the safety of communities.

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Honor law enforcement and community safety with appreciation campaigns, memorial events, and cause-driven partnerships that strengthen local brand presence.

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Thank a local officer campaign: partner with coffee shops or restaurants to offer free meals to peace officers during Police Week
Memorial candlelight vigil sponsorship: brands donate to or promote the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund with virtual/in-person events
Employee appreciation tie-in: government agencies and law enforcement employers recognize their own staff sacrifice and service
Community safety storytelling: PR and content highlighting how local businesses support officer wellness and family resources

History

In 1962, US President John F. Kennedy proclaimed National Peace Officers Memorial Day to be on May 15.

Along with the day, the calendar week in which the day falls has been considered to be Police Week. In the many years since that time, the tradition of celebrating this day and week has been continued by a number of different presidents.

While the Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week are officially sponsored by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), they are also supported and celebrated by a number of different organizations, agencies, and groups throughout the country.

Since the late 1980s, people have held a candlelight vigil annually to honor fallen officers, along with the celebration of this week. The ceremony is put on by the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund.

How to celebrate

Light a Candle of Hope

Individuals spread throughout the nation can participate in the Annual Candlelight Vigil by lighting a real candle at home as well as a “virtual” flame online with a small donation. It’s also possible to send a message of hope and healing at the same time through the National Law Enforcement Memorial Fund organization website.

Thank a Peace Officer

Those who are related to, work with or have a friend who is a police or peace officer may want to mark Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week by saying thank you. Tell them how much their services and sacrifice are appreciated and perhaps buy them a cup of coffee or lunch just to say thanks.

Participate in Police Week Events

In honor of Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week, local groups of the FOP may host various events and ceremonies that encourage the community to participate, remember, and support police and peace officers. This might include unity tours, guard competitions, survivors’ conferences, memorial services, wreath-laying ceremonies, community events, and many other activities. Check out the National Police Week website for more information. It is also possible to read the Roll Call of Heroes on this same site.

FAQ

What is the difference between a “peace officer” and a “police officer”?

In many places the term “peace officer” is broader than “police officer.” Police officers are typically sworn members of a municipal, regional, or national police service with authority to enforce criminal law and maintain public order. “Peace officer” can include police officers as well as sheriffs, constables, correctional officers, certain inspectors, and other officials who are granted legal powers to preserve the peace, depending on the jurisdiction. The exact definition and powers of peace officers are set out in national or state/provincial law, so the scope of the term varies from country to country.

What are the most common risks and hazards faced by law enforcement officers on duty?

Law enforcement officers routinely face hazards such as assaults, vehicle-related incidents, and exposure to firearms and other weapons. In the United States, federal statistics show that transportation incidents and assaults are among the leading causes of line-of-duty deaths, while nonfatal injuries often result from confrontations, overexertion, and falls. Officers can also face long-term health risks from chronic stress, shift work, and exposure to traumatic events, which may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and mental health challenges.

How do trauma and stress in policing affect officers’ mental health over time?

Repeated exposure to violence, emergencies, and human suffering can contribute to post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, and substance misuse among officers. Research suggests that many officers experience symptoms such as sleep problems, irritability, and emotional numbing, even if they do not meet full criteria for a mental health diagnosis. Stigma and concerns about career impact can discourage some officers from seeking help, although peer support programs, confidential counseling, and early intervention have been shown to reduce the long-term impact of trauma.

What is “community policing,” and how does it aim to improve public safety?

Community policing is a strategy in which officers and community members work together to identify and solve local problems, rather than focusing only on responding to calls for service. It typically involves regular, non-crisis contact between officers and residents, collaborative problem solving, and efforts to build trust with neighborhood groups, schools, and businesses. Studies have found that community policing can improve perceptions of legitimacy and cooperation with law enforcement, which can support crime prevention and more peaceful resolution of conflicts.

How do different countries approach the use of force by law enforcement?

Approaches to police use of force vary widely across countries and are shaped by law, training, oversight, and social context. Many nations have legal standards that require force to be necessary and proportionate, with lethal force reserved for situations where there is an imminent threat to life. Some countries emphasize de-escalation and communication in training and may have stricter controls on firearms, while others have more heavily armed patrols and broader legal authority to use force. Independent oversight bodies, transparent reporting, and clear guidance are key elements in international recommendations for responsible use-of-force policies.

How do memorials and honor rolls for fallen officers support surviving families and colleagues?

Memorials and official honor rolls provide formal recognition of officers who have died in the line of duty and can help validate the sacrifices made by both the officers and their families. Ceremonies, name inscriptions, and ongoing remembrance activities create opportunities for survivors and colleagues to gather, grieve, and share stories. Research on bereavement and traumatic loss suggests that rituals of remembrance and community support can aid psychological healing, help reduce feelings of isolation, and reinforce access to practical resources such as survivor benefits and peer support networks.

What role do training and standards play in reducing line-of-duty deaths and injuries?

Comprehensive training and clear professional standards are central to reducing risks for officers and the public. Evidence-informed programs focus on topics such as safe driving practices, tactical decision-making, de-escalation, crisis intervention, and proper use of safety equipment like body armor and seat belts. Agencies that regularly review critical incidents, update policies, and provide scenario-based training can identify patterns that contribute to injuries or fatalities and adjust their practices accordingly, which helps create safer conditions for both officers and community members.