Why are flags at half-staff? It's Peace Officers Memorial Day
Julia GomezWonder why you're seeing flags lowered to half-staff?
The country will keep flags at half-staff from dusk to dawn on Friday, May 15 in honor of Peace Officers Memorial Day, which falls during Police Week, according to a proclamation made by President Donald Trump.
"Our grateful country joins them in honoring the memory of the fallen officers who gave their lives protecting their fellow citizens, and we stand resolutely beside the families they left behind," the proclamation states. "We also recognize those who have been injured in the line of duty and the families who have stood faithfully by their side through hardship and recovery, and we pledge our steadfast support to those who continue to wear the badge. "
The memorial day has been observed for more than 60 years, following a joint resolution signed in October 1962 that designated May 15 of every year as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week it falls in as Police Week.
In honor of the day, Trump asked governors of U.S. states and territories to lower flags on May 15.
What is a peace officer?
A peace officer is an official, like a sheriff or police officer, who is "appointed to maintain public order, prevent crime, and make arrests," according to Law School Data.
Officers can work at the local, state, federal or tribal level, according to National Day Calendar. They can also work in military law enforcement.
Who does Peace Officers Memorial Day honor?
The holiday honors the men and women who have fallen or been injured in the line of duty, according to National Day Calendar.
Is Peace Officers Memorial Day a federal holiday?
The day is not considered a federal holiday the same way as Memorial Day, which falls on Monday, May 25, according to the Office of Personnel Management.
Government offices will be open. Businesses and schools operate regularly on May 15.
Julia Gomez is a Trending reporter for USA TODAY and covers invasive species, space phenomena, scientific studies, natural disasters and trending news. Connect with her on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and TikTok: @juliamariegz, or email her at [email protected].