Every May, the law enforcement community comes together for a deeply personal and profoundly important reason—National Police Week. For some, it’s a time to reflect. For others, it’s about honoring someone whose name is etched in stone. And for many, it’s a reaffirmation of the commitment to serve and protect, no matter the cost.
Why We Pause
Back in 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation that established Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15. Since then, that single day of remembrance has grown into a full week of national observance—bringing together officers, families, departments, and supporters from all over the country.
The most visible event is the National Peace Officers Memorial Service held in Washington, D.C. This solemn gathering draws thousands and serves as a collective tribute to those who lost their lives in the line of duty. Candlelight vigils, names read aloud, salutes offered—it’s a powerful reminder that these men and women are not forgotten.
And it’s not just happening in D.C. Local agencies across the country hold their own ceremonies and community events, each one reinforcing a shared understanding: this work is risky, sacred, and worth upholding.
Events
This year’s events began on Sunday, May 11, and will continue through Saturday, May 17. Key events include the 37th Annual Candlelight Vigil on Tueday the 13th, and the National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service on Thursday the 15th.
Candlelight Vigil
The Candlelight Vigil is a solemn event held annually during National Police Week to honor fallen law enforcement officers. In 2025, the 37th Annual Candlelight Vigil will take place on Tuesday, 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.
National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service
Held annually on May 15 at the West Front of the U.S. Capitol, the National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service stands as the week’s most solemn tradition. Sponsored by the Grand Lodge Fraternal Order of Police and its Auxiliary, the ceremony honors officers who recently made the ultimate sacrifice and pays tribute to all who have fallen in the line of duty.
Beginning at 12:00 p.m., the service includes formal addresses, musical tributes, and the presentation of memorial wreaths—each moment a powerful reminder of the courage, commitment, and cost of the badge.
The 2025 Roll Call of Heroes includes officers who will be honored at the FOP Peace Officers’ Memorial Service on May 15, 2025. The 2025 Honor Roll will be engraved on the walls of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial and honored at the Candlelight Vigil on May 13, 2025.
Full Schedule
Other events include the National Police K-9 Memorial Service, Police Unity Tour Bicycle Ride-In, Police Vehicle Display and Shine, C.O.P.S. Blue Honor Gala, Stand Watch for the Fallen, and C.O.P.S. Blue Family BBQ.
Click here for the full schedule of events.
Throughout the week, the National Law Enforcement Museum will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., offering visitors a chance to engage with exhibits that tell the story of American law enforcement. The National Law Enforcement Memorial remains open to the public 24/7, providing a space for reflection and remembrance. If you’re unable to attend in person, take some time to take the National Law Enforcement Memorial Virtual Tour here.
Their Stories, Our Responsibility
One of the most meaningful ways we honor the fallen is by telling their stories—and recognizing those who came close but survived.
Safariland SAVE #1930, Deputy Josh Gordon, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, was pursuing a suspect wanted in connection with an armed robbery. After the suspect crashed his vehicle, he exited firing. One of the rounds struck Deputy Gordon center mass, knocking him to the ground. His ABA® HP01 Level IIIA armor stopped the round, saving his life in an instant that could have gone another way. That moment is a stark reminder of just how critical reliable gear can be.
SAVE #997, LAPD Officer Andrew Taylor was shot during a gunfight that left the suspect dead. One bullet passed through his armpit and out his back; another struck his vest and was stopped cold. Though he sustained injuries, his armor prevented something worse. His story, like so many in the SAVES Club, speaks to courage, resilience, and the brotherhood that fuels the will to return to duty.
SAVE #1885, Officer Garret Osilka of Loveland, CO, was shot at point-blank range with a 12-gauge shotgun during a traffic stop. His Second Chance® Summit™ SM01 armor and IMPAC™ HT plate stopped the blast. Though seriously injured, he stayed in the fight—returning fire, radioing for help, and aiding in the suspect’s capture. Osilka survived because of his training, composure, and the gear that held strong under pressure.
These stories are not just about survival—they’re about responsibility. To each other. To the mission. And to the promise of coming home.
Standing With the Families
Behind every officer is a network—spouses, parents, children, partners, and friends—who carry their own quiet burden. They wait, they worry, and they hope for a safe return. When the unthinkable happens, organizations like Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.) step in. They provide grief counseling, peer support, and long-term assistance to the families of fallen officers.
Police Week honors those families, too. You’ll see them in the crowd at the memorial, clutching photos, holding hands, wiping away tears, standing strong. They are not forgotten.
How to Show Support
One of the simplest and most visible ways to show support is to wear blue on May 15, Peace Officers Memorial Day. It’s a small but meaningful gesture of solidarity with the law enforcement community.
By Presidential Proclamation, government buildings across the country fly the American flag at half-staff on May 15, and citizens are encouraged to do the same in remembrance of fallen officers.
The Journey Continues
Police Week isn’t just about ceremonies—it’s about people. It’s about remembering those who gave everything, and supporting those who still serve. It’s about the everyday courage it takes to put on a vest, strap on a duty belt, and step into the unknown.
It’s also about moving forward—staying sharp, staying equipped, and staying alive. At Safariland, we take that responsibility seriously. Every piece of armor we craft, every holster we mold, every solution we develop has one goal: saving lives. We’re proud to support the men and women of law enforcement—not just this week, but every single day.
A Personal Note
If you’ve ever stood in a formation at a memorial, driven cross-country for the Unity Tour, or stood behind a friend in uniform who needed support, you know this week hits different. You’ve felt the weight. You’ve seen the cost.
So take a moment. Light a candle. Share a story. Hug your family. Reach out to a fellow officer who’s carrying a heavy load. This week isn’t just about those we lost—it’s about remembering why we still serve.
To those who go out every day and carry the weight of the badge with honor, we see you. We stand with you. And we remember.
