Every year, during the week of May 11th to May 17th, all communities throughout the United States come together to recognize and honor the brave men and women of law enforcement during National Police Week.
This week is a time for remembrance, appreciation and support for the officers that dedicate their lives to protecting the community.
National Police Week includes multiple important events, most notably the National Peace Officers Memorial Service. These events serve as opportunities where law enforcement officers, survivors, families and citizens can pay their respects to fallen officers.
“We participate in these events; we meet with the family members of fallen officers who have come down, and we get to spend time with them,” local South Windsor police officer Sergeant Futtner said. “The family members really appreciate the ceremony.”
The tradition of National Police week started in 1962 when President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation that named May 15th as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week surrounding it as Police Week.
In 1982, what started out as a small event in Washington D.C, with around 120 participants, has grown into a major national event with around 40,000 participants a year. Today, this event is so impactful that it attracts thousands of attendees, including law enforcement personnel and survivors from across the country.
The lowering of the American flag to half-staff on May 15th is one of the most important signs of remembrance during this week. This gesture is a symbol of respect for fallen officers.
The Police Unity tour is an annual, multi-state bicycle ride that honors and raises awareness for law enforcement officers who have passed in the line of duty. The tour also raises funds for the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund.
“For me personally, being able to be one of the few officers from South Windsor that has been able to have this experience means alot to me, and I hope that brings more meaning back to the officers here and sets an example for them to appreciate the little things in the job and in life,” Sergeant Futtner said.
The memorial service is open to all and free to attend. It serves not only as a solemn remembrance but also as a powerful show of solidarity among law enforcement and the communities they serve.
“The men and women you see everyday on the road are phenomenal people and they are willing to give everything they have to keep the people they protect safe,” South Windsor School Resource Officer Weiss said.
As National Police week is observed, people throughout the country take a moment to honor the courage and sacrifice of our nation’s law enforcement officers.
