Thousands Attend National Police Week in D.C. (photos)

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation which designated May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which that date falls as Police Week. Currently, tens of thousands of law enforcement officers from around the world converge on Washington, D.C., to participate in a number of planned events which honor those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice. This year’s main events took place between May 13 and May 15 and the Annual Candlelight Vigil, Honor Guard Competition, Emerald Society & Pipe Band March and Service, 5K run, Unity Tour Bike Ride and Memorial Service on the Capitol West Lawn with keynote speaker President Barack Obama.

The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial which is located at the Judiciary Square Metro on the 400 block of E St., NW, in Washington, D.C., features bronze sculptures depicting a series of lions protecting their cubs, symbolizing the protective role of law enforcement officers. Blue-gray marble walls are inscribed with the names of more than 17,500 officers who have been killed in the line of duty (dating back to 1792). The National Law Enforcement Museum, a 55,000-square foot underground facility will be built near the memorial that will tell the story of American law enforcement through high-tech, interactive exhibits, collections, research and education. The museum is expected to open in 2015.

View our photos of National Police Week 2013 by clicking on the photo icons below.