The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Illinois, led by Steven D. Weinhoeft, recognized on May 11 the courage and dedication of local, state, and federal law enforcement partners as part of National Police Week.
National Police Week is observed from May 10 through May 16 to honor officers who have fallen in the line of duty and to celebrate those who continue to serve their communities.
“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.”
National Police Week was established in 1962 after President John F. Kennedy issued a proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week, with Peace Officers Memorial Day falling on May 15 each year specifically honoring law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year during this week, hundreds of names of officers killed while serving are engraved on the walls at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC. These names are read aloud during an annual Candlelight Vigil; this year marks the 38th Annual Candlelight Vigil scheduled for Wednesday, May 13.
