NATIONAL DAYHISTORY & MILITARY

Peace Officers Memorial Day

On Peace Officers Memorial Day, we honor the quiet acts of citizenship — in uniform, at the ballot box, in our communities.

MAY15

Saturday, May 15Every year on May 15

days to go

Roots: Established by President John F. Kennedy in 1962
Vibe: A solemn day of remembrance and gratitude
Also on May 15: Defense Transportation Day · Endangered Species Day · Nylon Stocking Day
Hashtag: #PeaceOfficersMemorialDay

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Ways to celebrate

Small, doable ways to celebrate Peace Officers Memorial Day.

Send a note to someone who has served.
Attend a local ceremony or observance if there is one.
Fly a flag properly, or don't fly one you can't maintain.
Donate to a veterans' service organization.
Teach a kid one piece of local history they don't know yet.

Make it your kind of celebration

Family
Watch a documentary or read a local history piece together and discuss it.
Kids
Help them write a short thank-you card to a veteran or service member.
Couples
Attend a local ceremony or observance together.
Office
Host a moment of recognition — a short announcement, a card circulated, a donation drive.
School
Invite a local veteran to speak, or visit a nearby historic site.
Community
Volunteer with an organization that serves veterans and their families.
Just me
Read one first-person account by someone who served. Let it sit.

Plan ahead

Peace Officers Memorial Day is observed on May 15 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Fri, May 15this year

2027Sat, May 15

2028Mon, May 15

2029Tue, May 15

2030Wed, May 15

2031Thu, May 15

2032Sat, May 15

2033Sun, May 15

2034Mon, May 15

2035Tue, May 15

2036Thu, May 15

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Fast facts

Over 22,000Officers honored since 1791

2021In 2021, 619 officers died in the line of duty

The story

Peace Officers Memorial Day is observed each year on May 15, a day set aside to honor the courage and sacrifice of law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty. The observance was established by a proclamation from President John F. Kennedy in 1962, as part of National Police Week, which takes place during the week of May 15. It serves as a reminder of the risks taken by officers to keep our communities safe and the profound loss felt by their families and communities.

Read the full story

The day is marked by ceremonies across the United States, with many cities hosting memorial services where the names of fallen officers are read aloud. The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C., serves as a focal point for these commemorations, where families and colleagues gather to honor their loved ones. The memorial itself is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made, bearing the names of over 22,000 fallen officers etched into its walls.

In addition to memorial services, communities often engage in various acts of remembrance, including candlelight vigils and community service projects supporting law enforcement families. Schools and organizations may also hold educational events to teach the importance of peace officers and their role in society. These observances not only honor those who have died but also foster a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by law enforcement personnel.

As we observe Peace Officers Memorial Day, it is essential to reflect on the ongoing commitment of law enforcement officers across the nation. Each day, they put their lives on the line to protect us, often facing dangerous situations with bravery and dedication. By recognizing their sacrifices and contributions, we can foster a greater sense of community and support for those who serve.