Dothan, Ala. (WDNews) — Law enforcement agencies across the Wiregrass and surrounding areas paused Friday to recognize Peace Officers Memorial Day, honoring officers who lost their lives in the line of duty while remembering the sacrifices made by law enforcement families and communities.
Several agencies across southeast Alabama shared messages of remembrance and appreciation throughout the day, recognizing both fallen officers and those currently serving their communities.
Peace Officers Memorial Day is observed nationally each year on May 15. The observance was established by President John F. Kennedy in 1962 after he signed a proclamation designating May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which it falls as National Police Week.
According to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, the day serves as a time to honor federal, state and local officers who have died or been disabled while serving in the line of duty.
Across the country, memorial ceremonies, flag observances and moments of silence are held annually during National Police Week in Washington, D.C., and within local communities.
In the Wiregrass, agencies used social media and community outreach Friday to thank officers for their service while remembering those who never made it home after their shift.
Local officials said the observance is meant not only to honor fallen officers, but also to recognize the dangers law enforcement officers continue to face daily while serving their communities.
