Sunday, May 11, marks the beginning of National Police Week, which honors America’s law enforcement community every May.  

The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund will hold live, in-person events and ceremonies, including the 37th Annual Candlelight Vigil on Tuesday, May 13. This Candlelight Vigil honors the fallen officers whose names have recently been added to the Memorial.

In 1962, President Kennedy proclaimed May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the calendar week in which May 15 falls as National Police Week.   National Police Week was established by a joint resolution of Congress in 1962 and pays special recognition to those law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others.

This year, the names of 345 officers killed in the line of duty were added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C.  This number includes officers who were killed after 2024’s ceremonies and some even before 2024, whose stories of sacrifice were lost to history until now.  There are 24,412 names engraved on the Memorial, starting with the first casualty in 1791.

As you start your week on Sunday, you may ask, “What can I say to a police officer as an expression of appreciation?”  The simple answer is a modest and sincere “Thank you for your service,” or “Thank you for all you do and your hard work.”

Your kind words and this simple gesture can make a significant difference in their day.

Law enforcement officers in the Borough of Chambersburg and throughout the country work hard every day to ensure the safety of their residents and visitors. They tirelessly work their 12- and 8-hour shifts and sometimes leave meals and family commitments to return to work because the community's needs have to come first. Every officer in Chambersburg takes their Oath of Office seriously. 

If you see an officer anytime, especially this upcoming week, please thank them for their service.

We are all grateful for the support of our community!

Please remain safe,

Chief Meredith Dominick and Mayor Kenneth “Hockey” Hock