Over 60 years ago, in 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation, stating that May 15 is Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week that surrounds that date became Police Week. Now, “tens of thousands of law enforcement officers from around the world converge on Washington, DC to participate in a number of planned events which honor those that have paid the ultimate sacrifice,” according to National Police Week.

In 1982, a memorial service honored 120 survivors and supporters of law enforcement, and over the next forty years, several events have become traditional in Washington DC to honor “thousands of survivors and law enforcement officers.”

This year, National Police Week is celebrated from Sunday, May 14, through Saturday, May 20. The events throughout this week acknowledge the risks that police officers take on a day-to-day basis. This is also a week where individuals can thank police officers that they see for their service.

Some students aspire to be peace officers, serving in the police force. Those with that future in mind might consider attending The Sacramento Police Academy where new classes will begin in July, but only those who have sufficient experience through college or military service will be permitted. Teens might consider a career through the Solano Sheriff’s Office by serving as a Cadet.