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National Police Memorial Day

Honoring our brave officers on National Police Memorial Day - remembering the selfless sacrifices made for our safety and peace every day.

Sunday

September 2026

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

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YEARLY DATESunday Closest to Sept 29

OBSERVED INUnited Kingdom

CATEGORYCareers

SUBCATEGORYFirst Responders

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Mark your calendars to honor the brave and the fallen on the National Police Memorial Day, which occurs on the Sunday closest to Sept 29. This day has been solemnly observed since 1962, when President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day, and the week in which that date falls as Police Week. In honor of this, various events are held across the nation to commemorate those who put their lives on the line to protect our communities. It is a day of respect and remembrance that we all share for our heroes in blue. Let's remember to express our gratitude and support, shining a light on their selfless sacrifices for our safety and peace every day.

TIMELINE

National Police Memorial Day Timeline

Establishment of Peace Officers Memorial Day

President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation officially establishing May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day.

First Memorial Service in D.C.

The first National Police Officers' Memorial service was held in Washington D.C., attended by approximately 125 people.

Enactment of Public Law 101-647

According to The Public Safety Officer Benefits Act of 1976, as amended by the Public Law 101-647, more benefits were provided to officers killed in the line of duty.

Recognition Post 9/11 Attacks

Following the events of 9/11, recognition and appreciation for law enforcement officers increased dramatically across the nation.

Visits to National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial

The number of visitors to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in D.C. significantly increased, reflecting growing public support and awareness.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Police Memorial Day

Plant a Peace Garden

To signify peace and growth, a garden can be a perfect way to honor those who have fallen. You can plant a garden with blue flowers to signify the sacrifices made by our brave officers.

CREATE

Create care packages for local police officers

Showing up to your local police station with care packages not only displays gratitude for the difficult job they do every day, but also is a reminder that their hard work does not go unnoticed.

HOLD

Hold a candlelight vigil

Organize a community event where you and others gather in a public place with candles. This act of solidarity not only honors those who have fallen in the line of duty, but brings the community together in remembrance and appreciation.

CREATE

Create a memorial wall or space in your community

Collaborate with your local city council or community center to create a space dedicated to the fallen officers of your community. This could feature plaques, photos, and stories about their lives and service.

OBSERVE

Observe a moment of silence

Take time out of your day to observe a moment of silence for fallen officers. Whether you do it alone or in a group, this shows deep respect and honors the sacrifices that have been made.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Police Memorial Day is Important

It promotes community bonding

National Police Memorial Day gives communities an opportunity to come together in solidarity, unity, and mutual respect. The shared act of recognition and gratitude fosters a stronger, safer, and more cohesive community.

It is a day for remembering and honoring brave souls

National Police Memorial Day allows us to remember and pay tribute to the brave police officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. They put themselves in danger every day to maintain law and order which is worthy of respect and remembrance.

It serves as a reminder of their great service

This day helps us honor those who serve and protect our communities. It reminds us to express our gratitude and support, highlighting their selfless sacrifices for our safety and peace every day.

Related holidays

National Police Week

Let's honor and thank our brave police officers during National Police Week - they are the everyday heroes who keep our communities safe!

Peace Officers Memorial Day

Honor the brave heroes and pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives - join us in celebrating Peace Officers Memorial Day.

National Police Remembrance Day

On National Police Remembrance Day, we honor and remember the brave men and women who sacrificed their lives to protect our communities. Thank you for your service.

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Jan 2026