May 7, 2013 - The Houston Police Department will observe National Police Week from Friday, May 10, through Friday, May 17. 

First proclaimed in 1962 by President John F. Kennedy, National Peace Officers Memorial Day is celebrated on May 15th and the week in which the date falls is known as “Police Week.”  Law enforcement personnel from around the world gather in Washington, D.C., to participate in the National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service and Candlelight Vigil.  Communities across the nation also pay tribute to their fallen heroes.  National Police Week serves as a time of reflection and appreciation for the ultimate sacrifice made by exceptionally courageous and noble officers.

All officers and citizens are encouraged to drive with their headlights on, in remembrance of the peace officers who have sacrificed their lives while protecting our cities.

This year's activities for HPD include four important events, as well as daily pre-scheduled tours and demonstrations to Houston-area school children at the Houston Police Training Academy.

The Houston Police Department’s Honor Guard will participate in the National Police Week Ceremony in Washington, D. C., from May 12 through May 16. 

The Annual Memorial Service will be held on Friday, May 10, at 7 p.m., at the Houston Police Officers Memorial site at 2400 Memorial Drive to honor those officers who have given their lives in the line of duty.  A procession of police officers will walk down Memorial Drive beginning at 7 p.m.  A candlelight vigil will be held and include the placing of a wreath on the Houston Police Officers Memorial, a roll call of deceased officers, a 21-gun salute, the playing of TAPS, and a fly-over by the HPD helicopters.

The Police Week Awards Ceremony Breakfast will be held on Monday, May 13, at 8 a.m., at the Hyatt Regency Downtown, 1200 Louisiana. The ceremony will feature the reading of the Mayor's Proclamation and awards presentations. 

The Day of Prayer Ceremony will be held at 10 a.m., Wednesday, May 15, at HPD Headquarters aat 1200 Travis.  Houston area clergy members will gather to reinforce the partnership that exists between the community and the department. 

During Police Week, Houston-area school children are once again participating in pre-scheduled tours and demonstrations at the Houston Police Training Academy, 17000 Aldine Westfield.  The children will meet with officers and partake in demonstrations from the Air Support Squad, K-9 Unit, SWAT officers, Dive Team, Training Division, and Community Outreach Unit. 

It is during Police Week we remember and honor those who have given the ultimate sacrifice of their lives so that we may live in safety and peace.  Please join the Houston Police Department in commemorating the law enforcement officers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice, selflessly dedicating their lives in the line of duty while serving to protect the citizens of our great city. 



VHS/JFC  5-7-13