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National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day

Show your support for law enforcement officers on National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day - thank them for their service and dedication!

Saturday

January 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEJanuary 9

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCareers

SUBCATEGORYFirst Responders

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Show your appreciation for law enforcement officers on National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, January 9! This holiday was created in 2015 to honor the brave men and women who put their lives on the line each day to protect our communities. It's an opportunity to recognize all of their hard work and dedication throughout the year, from keeping us safe at home to protecting us abroad. Whether you give a special thank you or treat them with a small gesture such as flowers or dinner, this is one day that everyone can come together and show how much we appreciate them.

TIMELINE

National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day Timeline

First Law Enforcement Agency

The first known organized law enforcement system in the United States, the Boston Watch, was established.

Establishment of NYPD

New York City forms its first official police department, setting a precedent for modern law enforcement agencies in America.

Secret Service Formation

The United States Secret Service, initially established to suppress counterfeit currency, was formed, later expanding its responsibilities to include presidential security.

Police Week Proclamation

President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which it falls as Police Week.

Formation of Department of Homeland Security

Post 9/11, the Department of Homeland Security was formed to coordinate and oversee national security in response to terrorist threats.

First National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day

Organizations across the U.S. came collectively to celebrate the first National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day on January 9, 2015.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day

Write an appreciation letter

Take the time to write a heartfelt letter of appreciation to your local law enforcement agency or individual officer. Express your gratitude for all that they do to keep your family, friends, and community safe.

ATTEND

Attend a police event

Look up events in your local area that celebrate National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. These events give you the opportunity to show support and meet the officers in person.

Share a kind word

Take the time to thank an officer for their service whenever you encounter one in public. Even a simple “thank you” can make a difference.

ORGANIZE

Organize a fundraiser

Hosting a fundraiser is an effective way to show your appreciation. Whether it’s raising money for charities related to law enforcement or buying supplies and equipment, showing your support through financial contributions helps make a difference.

WEAR

Wear blue clothing

Show your support for law enforcement by wearing blue on National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. Encourage your friends and family members to join you in wearing blue as well.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day is Important

It brings attention to the dangers of being a police officer

Every year, thousands of police officers are killed or injured in the line of duty. These brave individuals deserve recognition for their dedication and bravery, as well as increased safety measures that can help reduce preventable deaths from occurring.

It shows appreciation for the sacrifices made by law enforcement personnel

Law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every single day to protect and serve our communities. National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day is a time to honor these courageous men and women for the tremendous sacrifice they have made in order to keep us safe.

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