Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week is an observance in this country that pays tribute to the local, state, and federal peace officers who have died, or who have been disabled, in the line of duty.

In a proclamation issued May 12, President Donald Trump called on Americans to “observe this week with appropriate ceremonies and activities. I also call on the Governors of the States and Territories and officials of other areas subject to the jurisdiction of the United States to direct that the flag be flown at half-staff on Peace Officers Memorial Day.”

Governor Ned Lamont issued a statement on Wednesday, May 14 to lower the flags in Connecticut from sunrise to sunset on Thursday, May 15.

“Entering a career in law enforcement takes a special kind of person who is so dedicated to their community that they are prepared at a moment’s notice to run into harm’s way in the name of public safety and for the protection of complete strangers,” Lamont said. “Every single person in our state and our country benefits from the protection of police officers, and we owe it to them to show how grateful we are for their service and how much we respect them. On Peace Officers Memorial Day, we salute those law enforcement officers who have given their lives in the line of duty, and we keep in our hearts their families and loved ones. I urge everybody in Connecticut to thank our law enforcement officials and keep those we’ve lost in your prayers.”

Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz said, “Law enforcement officials epitomize what it means to be a public servant, working tirelessly to protect and serve their communities.” She added, “As we observe Peace Officers Memorial Day, let us remember those who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Their heroism will not be forgotten, and we owe a great debt of gratitude.”

In accordance with the governor’s directive, flags will be at half-staff on the Connecticut State Capitol building and all other state-operated buildings, grounds, and facilities statewide. Individuals, businesses, schools, municipalities, and any other private entities and government subdivisions are encouraged to lower their flags for this same duration of time. Since no flag should fly higher than the US flag, all other flags, including state, municipal, corporate, or otherwise, should also be lowered.