National Police Week has been celebrated by congress since 1962. It always centers around May 15, so this year, the week of honor will run from May 10 to May 16.
It comes right on the heels of Public Service Recognition Week, May 3-9, but National Police Week is specifically reserved for thanking the families of officers who died in the line of duty.
Mayor Kenneth Alexander is issued a proclamation this morning, declaring May 12 Peace Officers' Memorial Day.
Sergeant William Pickering, the public information officer for Norfolk Police, said this year, the department would have to memorialize fallen officers online.
"Each year the Norfolk Police Department holds a service to pay tribute to the memory of our police officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice," he wrote. "Due to COVID-19, we are unable to host this ceremony; however, it will not stop us from recognizing the unwavering dedication of the 39 officers who gave their lives in the service to Norfolk’s residents."
Do you want to show the family members of fallen Norfolk Police Officers some love? You can do so on their Facebook page or Twitter account.