Police Week | Washington DC

More than 8,000 Police Officers, survivors of fallen officers and friends watched from the West Front of the U.S. Capitol today as President Barack Obama delivered his tribute to those who gave their live in the line of duty. The general theme was not how they died, but rather how they lived their lives. Obama told survivors their sacrifice will not go unnoticed and that his administration would provide support for their cause, and promote the Memorial’s mission.

In October of 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15th as National Peace Officers’ Memorial Day. Since the signing of this proclamation, this date has been the official day for recognition for law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

This is the 29th year the Fraternal Order of Police and its Auxiliary have held the National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service.

The Fraternal Order of Police is the largest law enforcement labor organization in the United States, with more than 327,000 members.

Country music star Lee Ann Womack performed a musical tribute in honor of the fallen officers and their surviving family members, colleagues and friends who attended the ceremony.