By Trish Svoboda

In line with Executive Order #20-30, Governor Laura Kelly has ordered that flags across Kansas be lowered to half-staff from dawn to dusk on Wednesday, May 15, 2024. This is in observance of Peace Officers Memorial Day, a day dedicated to honoring local, state, and federal peace officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice or have been disabled while serving their communities.

“Kansas peace officers put their lives on the line daily to serve our communities,” said Governor Laura Kelly. “Peace Officers Memorial Day serves as a time to recognize their sacrifices. Their courage and commitment will never be forgotten.”

On October 1, 1961, the establishment of a holiday to honor peace officers was approved by Congress, authorizing the president to designate May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day. The bill was signed into law by John F. Kennedy on October 1, 1962.