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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!

Sunday

9–15

May 2027

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

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YEARLY DATEWeek containing May 15 (Sunday-start)

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCareers

SUBCATEGORYFirst Responders

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to honor and appreciate our brave police officers on National Police Week, which falls on May 15 this year. This week-long event has been observed since 1962 as a way to remember those who have lost their lives in the line of duty and show support for current law enforcement officers. It's a time to recognize the sacrifices that these men and women make every day to keep our communities safe. From parades and ceremonies to simple acts of gratitude, there are many ways you can participate in National Police Week and show your support for these everyday heroes.

TIMELINE

National Police Week Timeline

National Police Week Established

President John F. Kennedy signed Public Law 87-726, designating May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which the date falls as Police Week.

First Memorial Service

The first National Police Officers' Memorial Service took place in Senate Park, attracting about 120 survivors and supporters of law enforcement.

Dedication of National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial

The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial was formally dedicated in Washington, D.C., honouring over 20,000 officers who have died in duty since 1791.

Growing Observance

By 2000, the annual Memorial Service drew more than 20,000 officers, survivors, and supporters, reflecting the growing observance of the National Police Week.

Extension of Police Week Activities

Activities for National Police Week were extended to a full week of seminars, workshops, and other events to further honor and remember fallen officers.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Police Week

Attend a community event

Look for local events celebrating National Police Week and attend one with your family and friends. This is a great way to show support for your local law enforcement and learn more about their work.

THANK

Thank a police officer

Take the time to thank a police officer for their service. You can write a thank you note, buy them a cup of coffee, or simply say "thank you" when you see them on duty. It will mean a lot to them.

DONATE

Donate to a police charity

Show your support for law enforcement by donating to a police charity or organization. This could be in the form of money, supplies, or even volunteering your time at their events or fundraisers.

ORGANIZE

Organize a community cookout

Gather your neighbors and friends and organize a community cookout to honor police officers in your area. This is a great way to bring people together and show appreciation for the hard work of law enforcement.

EDUCATE

Educate yourself on police work

Take the time to learn more about the responsibilities and challenges faced by police officers. Attend a community forum or seminar, or read books and articles written by law enforcement professionals.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Police Week is Important

It recognizes the hard work and dedication of all law enforcement officers

National Police Week is a time to appreciate and thank all law enforcement officers for their tireless efforts in keeping our communities safe. These individuals put their lives on the line every day, and it's important to show gratitude for their service.

It honors and remembers fallen officers

National Police Week is an important time to pay tribute to police officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty. It allows us to honor their bravery, sacrifice, and dedication to keeping our communities safe.

It brings awareness to the dangers of being a police officer

Police work can be incredibly dangerous, and National Police Week highlights the risks that these individuals face every day while serving their communities. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices they make in order to protect and serve others.

Related holidays

SAT

May 2026

Careers

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 Memorial Day

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

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!

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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