Why are flags lowered for Peace Officers Memorial Day?
Flags are lowered as an act of remembrance for fallen law enforcement officers and their families. Federal, state, and local governments may also issue related observances.
Peace Officers Memorial Day
Peace Officers Memorial Day honors law enforcement officers who died or were disabled in the line of duty.
Does the federal order apply to every state?
Mast treats active federal orders as applying broadly across the United States. Some states may also issue their own orders or statements with local context.
Where should I check before lowering my flag?
Check Mast for a live summary, then use the linked official source when you need confirmation for a formal display decision.
How the observance began
Congress established National Police Week in 1962, and President John F. Kennedy proclaimed May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day. The day recognizes federal, state, and local officers who lost their lives in the line of duty protecting others.
Its place within National Police Week
Peace Officers Memorial Day is the focal remembrance within National Police Week. Annual gatherings in Washington bring together surviving families, officers, honor guards, and the public for vigils, memorial services, and the reading or dedication of fallen officers' names.
Why May 15 can be an exception
The Flag Code calls for half-staff on May 15 unless that date is also Armed Forces Day. Because Armed Forces Day falls on the third Saturday in May, Mast accounts for that statutory exception in its annual order.