Flags across the United States are flying at half-staff Friday in observance of Peace Officer Memorial Day, part of National Police Week, according to a proclamation issued Monday by President Donald Trump.
The annual observance honors federal, state and local law enforcement officers who died or were injured in the line of duty. In his proclamation, Trump said the nation recognizes officers “who gave their lives in the line of duty” and those who continue serving communities across the country.
Peace Officer Memorial Day is observed each year on May 15. National Police Week is recognized during the calendar week in which May 15 falls, according to federal law.
Texas also recognizes Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15 and designates the week as Police Week to honor officers who lost their lives or were injured while serving the public.
Congress and President John F. Kennedy established Peace Officer Memorial Day and National Police Week in 1962.
The observance comes as law enforcement agencies in North Texas continue training and graduating new officers.
The Dallas County sheriff’s office announced Friday that 28 peace officers graduated from its Basic Peace Officer Course during a ceremony at the George Allen Civil Courts Building in downtown Dallas.
“It is both fitting and symbolic that these new deputies begin their careers on a day dedicated to remembrance,” said Douglas Sisk, a spokesperson for the Dallas County sheriff’s office, in an email to The Dallas Morning News. “As they step forward into their roles, they do so with an awareness of the legacy they inherit and the responsibility they carry.”
The 27-week academy includes instruction in Texas penal code, arrest procedures, investigations, patrol procedures, defensive tactics and physical fitness, according to the sheriff’s office.
Sisk said completing the training was the beginning of a lifelong commitment to protect and serve the community for the 28 graduates.
“We are so proud of these cadets and welcome them into this noble law enforcement profession,” Dallas County Sheriff Marian Brown said in a news release Friday. “We continue to strive to recruit individuals who have a passion to help and serve the citizens of Dallas County.”