Governor Ned Lamont on Tuesday announced that he is directing US and state flags in Connecticut to be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Wednesday, May 15, 2019, in recognition of Peace Officers Memorial Day, a national observance paying tribute to local, state, and federal law enforcement officials who have died in the line of duty. It is recognized annually during National Police Week.

Accordingly, since no flag should fly higher than the US flag, all other flags — including state, municipal, corporate, or otherwise — should also be lowered during this same duration of time.

“Every day, whether they are on duty or off, law enforcement officers are prepared at a moment’s notice to respond to an emergency and run into harm’s way in the name of public safety – oftentimes putting their own lives in danger to protect the lives of complete strangers,” Gov Lamont said. “There’s not a single person in our state whose life has not been impacted in some way by a police officer, whether they know it or not. We especially must continue to show our respect to the family members of law enforcement, who make many sacrifices over the course of their loved one’s call to service.

“We salute every officer who has given his or her life in the line of duty – their memories will never be forgotten, and we thank them for their dedication to their communities.”

Similarly, President Donald J. Trump had issued a proclamation on May 10, ahead of Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week. 

“On Peace Officers Memorial Day and throughout Police Week, we express our unending gratitude to our Nation’s law enforcement officers,” the president said in part. “Those brave men and women selflessly confront danger to protect our families and defend our communities.  We also honor those in blue who have been killed or disabled in the line of duty.  We are especially mindful of the tremendous sacrifices of the 106 heroes who laid down their lives last year while protecting their communities.”

His proclamation also reminded Americans that “Our Nation’s law enforcement officers serve with courage, dedication, and strength. They fearlessly enforce our laws, even at the risk of personal peril, safeguarding our property, our liberty, and our lives. We owe them, and their families, our full and enduring support.”

The President and Mrs Trump plan to “light the White House in blue on May 15,” the proclamation said. He also encouraged “all Americans to observe Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week with appropriate ceremonies and activities.”