Peace Officers Memorial Day

President John F. Kennedy signed Public Law 87-726 in 1962 proclaiming May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day in honor of those law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty and its calendar week, established by a joint resolution of Congress, as Police Week in recognition of the service given by the men and women who stand guard to protect us through enforcement of our laws.

Amended in 1994, President Bill Clinton signed Public Law 103-322 directing the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff on May 15 unless that day is also Armed Forces Day, which is celebrated on the third Saturday in May.