May 15 is commemorated as National Peace Officers Memorial Day. The day was instituted by John F. Kennedy on October 1, 1962.
The day is intended to commemorate the men and women of American law enforcement who have been injured, killed or otherwise affected in the line of duty. The day is usually included as a part of an entire week held in Washington, D.C., where thousands of men and women gather to commemorate those affected in the line of duty. This year, the week will be marked by meaningful commemorations, such as wreath laying ceremonies, candlelight vigils, a Catholic Mass specifically held for men and women in uniform, a K-9 memorial service and an honor guard competition. (RELATED: Unless Youve Dealt With Situations Like These, Thank A Cop Today [SLIDESHOW])
Just in 2018, 53 police officers and law enforcement officials have been killed in the line of duty. Fifty-two of them were men and one was a woman. The two leading causes of death were by gunshot and automobile accidents.
Here are some of the most meaningful moments captured by the men and women on duty who work tirelessly to keep our communities safe every day.
Follow Jena on Twitter.
May 15 is commemorated as National Peace Officers Memorial Day. The day was instituted by John F. Kennedy on October 1, 1962.
The day is intended to commemorate the men and women of American law enforcement who have been injured, killed or otherwise affected in the line of duty. The day is usually included as a part of an entire week held in Washington, D.C., where thousands of men and women gather to commemorate those affected in the line of duty. This year, the week will be marked by meaningful commemorations, such as wreath laying ceremonies, candlelight vigils, a Catholic Mass specifically held for men and women in uniform, a K-9 memorial service and an honor guard competition. (RELATED: Unless Youve Dealt With Situations Like These, Thank A Cop Today [SLIDESHOW])
Just in 2018, 53 police officers and law enforcement officials have been killed in the line of duty. Fifty-two of them were men and one was a woman. The two leading causes of death were by gunshot and automobile accidents.
Here are some of the most meaningful moments captured by the men and women on duty who work tirelessly to keep our communities safe every day.
Follow Jena on Twitter.
