U.S. Attorney’s Office Observes National Police Week

FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS, Ill. – In observance of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Illinois recognize the courage and dedication of local, state and federal law enforcement partners and honor the officers who have fallen in the line of duty. National Police Week is observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16.  

“This National Police Week we celebrate the bravery and integrity of all law enforcement officers who selflessly dedicate their lives in service to our communities. We also honor the courage of those who lost their lives in the line of duty and extend our deepest condolences to their loved ones,” said U.S. Attorney Steve D. Weinhoeft. “We are grateful for our local, state and federal law enforcement partners who continue to respond to the call of duty and show up for our communities when they are needed the most. These courageous men and women work tirelessly to improve public safety throughout the Southern District of Illinois, and we are proud to support them.” 

Each year, during National Police Week, our nation comes together to honor the courage, sacrifice and dedication of law enforcement officers. Originally established in 1962, President John F. Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices in protecting our communities with dedication and courage. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which falls on May 15 every year, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.

Each year, hundreds of names of officers killed in the line of duty are engraved on the walls of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC. These names are then read aloud during the annual Candlelight Vigil to memorialize those who made the ultimate sacrifice. The 38th Annual Candlelight Vigil will be held on Wednesday, May 13 in Washington, DC.