National Police Week is an annual observance in the United States that honors law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Established in 1962 by President John F. Kennedy, it encompasses Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15 and the week in which that date falls. The week features memorial services, vigils and events that pay tribute to fallen officers and support their families.

In 2026, National Police Week will be observed from Sunday, May 10, to Saturday, May 16. Key events include the 38th Annual Candlelight Vigil on Wednesday, May 13, and the National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service on Friday, May 15.

The National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service is a formal ceremony held annually on May 15 to honor law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty. Organized by the Grand Lodge Fraternal Order of Police, the service takes place on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., and includes speeches, musical tributes and the presentation of memorial wreaths.

Wearing blue on May 15 is a gesture of solidarity and respect for law enforcement officers on Peace Officers Memorial Day. Blue symbolizes law enforcement, and this tradition honors officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

Yes. The United States flag may be flown at half-staff by Presidential Proclamation or by order of a state’s governor, according to National Police Week. By statute, the president is directed each year to issue a proclamation calling for government buildings to lower the flag to half-staff on May 15, Peace Officers Memorial Day, and inviting the people of the United States to do the same.

Support can be shown in various ways:

• Attend Memorials: Participate in local or national memorial services.
• Volunteer: Offer time to organizations supporting law enforcement families.
• Donate: Contribute to funds that assist fallen officers’ families.
• Educate: Share information about the sacrifices of law enforcement officers.

For more information, visit the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund.

The Candlelight Vigil is a solemn event held annually during National Police Week to honor fallen law enforcement officers. In 2026, the 38th Annual Candlelight Vigil will take place on Wednesday, May 13, at 8:00 p.m. on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. The ceremony includes the reading of names of officers who died in the line of duty and serves as a poignant reminder of their sacrifice.