What is National Police Week?
Every year, the National Law Enforcement Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), the Fraternal Order of Police/Fraternal Order of Police Auxiliary (FOP/FOPA), and Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.) collaborate to organize annual events in support of current law enforcement officers. These ceremonies commemorate the fallen during a week-long observance known as National Police Week.
National Police Week was first established in May of 1962 by President John F. Kennedy to honor the lives and sacrifices of fallen law enforcement officers. Each year, the week culminates on May 15 with National Peace Officers Memorial Day.
The events surrounding NPW (National Police Week) are solemn and highly significant for the law enforcement community. This year, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial includes the names of officers killed in the line of duty, each of whom will be honored during NPW.
National Police Week Events
Although National Police Week 2021 and 2020 looked quite different due to the COVID-19 pandemic, 2023 will hold several in-person events. This year’s events are scheduled to occur during the week of May 9-15. Throughout the week, an Officer Safety & Wellness Product Showcase will be available on social media platforms and through the free National Police Week App. Additional virtual events will include:
- FBI Wreath Laying Ceremony at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial– Wednesday, May 10 at 10:00 AM EST
- Police Unity Tour Arrival – Friday, May 12 at 8:00 AM EST
- C.O.P.S. National Police Survivor’s Conference – Sunday, May 14 – Tuesday May 16th
- National Peace Officers Memorial Day – Annual Memorial Service – Monday May 15h
For more information on National Police Week 2021 and the scheduled events, please visit: https://nleomf.org/programs-events/national-police-week
We Remember the Fallen Heroes
There are many ways that we can recognize, support and honor our local law enforcement officers. Here are five ideas to consider throughout the year ahead.
- Log on. Consider joining the virtual evening of remembrance during the Candlelight Vigil on May 13. Let the law enforcement community know that they matter in a show of solidarity.
- Plan a trip. Whether during October’s live events or at another time throughout the year, consider traveling to Washington, D.C. to pay homage to the lives of fallen officers at the National Law Enforcement Officer’s Memorial.
- Sponsor a program. There are so many to choose from – a quick online search will help you out. L-Tron has partnered with law enforcement agencies nationwide for two decades and we are firm believers in “Backing the Blue.” We’ve provided educational workshops, training, webinars, and written materials to keep officers informed and safe. We’ve also partnered with organizations like the Badge of Honor Association, Cookies for a Cop, and Rochester Books and Bears to show our utmost appreciation for law enforcement officers.
- Donate to the cause. A tax deductible donation to the Fraternal Order of Police National Memorial Committee can go a long way in supporting the important Police Week events in both May and October.
- Spread Awareness. Whether by word of mouth, a social media share, or even sporting Police Week apparel, you can help to increase awareness about this important week – and let the law enforcement community know that you care about them!
