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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.

Saturday

May 2027

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

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YEARLY DATEMay 15

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCareers

SUBCATEGORYFirst Responders

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15 is a day dedicated to honoring the brave men and women who serve as peace officers in our communities. The holiday was created in 1962 to commemorate those who have lost their lives while protecting and serving others. It's a time to remember their sacrifice and recognize the sacrifices that law enforcement officers make every day to ensure public safety and justice for all. From parades, ceremonies, and memorial services, there are many ways we can honor the brave people who put their lives on the line for us each day.

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TIMELINE

Peace Officers Memorial Day Timeline

Foundation of Police Forces

The foundation of formal police forces began in major US cities in the early and mid-1800s to maintain law and order.

Senate Resolution

On October 1, 1961, Congress passed a resolution authorising the president to designate May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day.

Establishment of Holiday

On October 1, 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed the bill into law, officially designating May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day.

First Memorial Service

The first National Peace Officers' Memorial Service was held on May 15 in Washington D.C., a tradition that continues annually.

Police Week Establishment

President Bill Clinton signs Public Law 103-322 directing U.S. flag to be lowered on all government buildings on Peace Officers Memorial Day. The law also extended the duration of the celebrations, marking the calendar week in which May 15 falls as Police Week.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Peace Officers Memorial Day

Attend a memorial service

Attend a memorial service in honor of fallen peace officers. Many cities have memorial services to remember and honor those who have lost their lives protecting citizens.

ORGANIZE

Organize a parade

Organize a parade to commemorate the lives of those who have served as peace officers. Invite local law enforcement agencies and organizations to join you in the celebration.

FLY

Fly a flag

Fly a flag at half-mast to honor those who have died in the line of duty. This is a great way to show your respect for fallen peace officers.

WRITE

Write letters

Write letters to the families of fallen peace officers expressing your gratitude and support for their service and sacrifice. This is a wonderful way to show that they are appreciated.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer

Volunteer in your local community and help out with events honoring peace officers. This is an excellent way to show your appreciation for those who have served their country.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Peace Officers Memorial Day is Important

It's a time to remember those we've lost

Peace Officers Memorial Day is also a special time to remember and pay tribute to the ones who have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving. We take this time to honor their memory and express our deepest gratitude and appreciation for their dedication and service.

It honors the service of peace officers

Peace Officers Memorial Day is a day dedicated to recognizing the brave men and women who have served as peace officers. On this day we come together to honor their courage, sacrifice, and commitment to keeping our communities safe.

It serves as a reminder of their selflessness

Peace Officers Memorial Day is an opportunity for us to reflect on all that our peace officers do for us. It serves as a reminder of how selfless these individuals are in putting themselves in danger in order to keep the public safe and secure.

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!

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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