Written by
Beth Farrah, SMT Writer
Jefferson City, Missouri – The flags of the United States and the State of Missouri at all government buildings in Missouri will be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset tomorrow on Wednesday, May 15th, in honor of Missouri’s Peace Officers Memorial Day, so designated by a state law created in 1996. The day commemorates the sacrifices of the federal, state, county and municipal peace officers who have been killed or disabled in the performance of their duties.
Peace Officers Memorial Day is not a national public holiday, but it has taken place annually since 1961. In October of 1961, congress came before the current president, John F. Kennedy, and proposed the idea of having a Memorial Day commemoration for the peace officers of America. Kennedy signed the bill and made it a law on October 1st. Ever since that day, the United States has celebrated Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15th during the national Police Week. The president is requested to issue a yearly proclamation to designate events to take place on May 15th, such as: direct all government officials to lower all flags on government buildings to half-staff and invite state as well as local governments to participate in the event.
“This is another way in which we can honor those Missouri law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice as they protected our safety,” Governor Jay Nixon said. “When Missourians see the lowered flags on Wednesday, it will serve as a reminder of the courage and selflessness of those who guard our safety every day.”
According to Concerns of Police Survivors (COPS), an average of about one-hundred-and-fifty police officers is killed every year while performing their everyday tasks. Many more have been injured during their line of duty. Families and co-workers often have a troubling time while dealing with the many tragic events that have caused them to lose a love one due to their profession. That is why many communities, both big and small, hold ceremonies, participate in Police Week activities, and hold memorial services in honor of the Peace Officers that have been lost.
Multiple communities and towns have a great deal of respect for the Peace Officers and the time and effort they put into protecting their citizens. This is why so many ceremonies are held for the tributes across the nation. Missouri is proud to be a part of Police Week as well as being a part of Peace Officers Memorial Day.
