Remember Law Enforcement During National Police Week

Like Memorial Day is for military veterans, the purpose of National Police Week is to remember the sacrifices made by law officers in your community. Join Aftermath this week as we give respect to those who have served, and honor those whose bravery keeps the peace in our home towns.

The History Of National Police Week

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy designated May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week during which it falls as National Police Week. This week, many important events will take place in and around Washington DC and the National Law Enforcement Memorial, including memorial services and other remembrances. The memorial campus is home to a museum which pays tribute to the history of law enforcement in the US, as well as a memorial garden which features elegant marble walls displaying the names of more than 20,000 federal, state and local law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty dating back to 1791. Tours of the campus are available year round, and thousands visit each year to pay their respects.

On the home front, local events range from coffee with a cop meetups to memorial services. Each of these activities is meant to express gratitude to officers past and present, and bring the community together to reflect on the important role of law enforcement in the community. Check your community bulletin board or reach out to your local law enforcement agency to learn about events in your community.

Other Important Dates

National Police week is only once a year, but Aftermath thanks officers year round. We regularly feature contests and giveaways, and sponsor events such as charity outings, scholarships, and fund raisers. We also attend Law Enforcement conferences throughout the nation, bringing our message of PPE, safety, and biohazard cleanup directly to the officers.

Through the year, tere are several other nationally designated days to honor police officers. These include National Thank a Cop Day on September 16th (third Saturday of September) and National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day on January 6th, 2018.

Ways to Say Thanks

Rather than choosing one of these appointed days, some prefer to express their thanks at other points throughout the year, including traditional holidays like Christmas or New Years. Though some departments may not be permitted to accept gifts, thank you cards to current or retired officers is one way to brighten their days and lift their spirits. Alternately, memorial funds and commemorative contributions are a good way to reach out to the families of officers who have given all in the line of duty.

For additional ideas on how to thank those who serve, check out this article or contact your local department to find out what is the best way to say thanks to the officers in your community.