National Police Week Honors Fallen Officers, Celebrates Service
National Police Week is being observed across the United States from May 11-17, 2025, with ceremonies and events honoring law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving their communities. The annual observance includes memorial services, candlelight vigils, and community outreach events designed to strengthen the relationship between police departments and the citizens they protect.
The tradition, which began in 1962 when President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day, continues to serve as a powerful reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement personnel and the importance of supporting those who serve, according to The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund.
Honoring Sacrifice and Service
The centerpiece of National Police Week is the candlelight vigil held at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C., where thousands gather to honor the 147 officers who died in the line of duty during the past year. Their names are added to the memorial wall containing over 23,000 officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice throughout American history.
“This week serves as a powerful reminder of the risks officers take every day when they put on their badge and uniform,” said Attorney General James Wilson during Monday’s opening ceremony. “We honor those we’ve lost and express our gratitude to those who continue to serve.”
Local police departments across the country are hosting community events, station tours, and educational programs to foster greater understanding between officers and the communities they serve, according to The Police Foundation.
Bright Harbor Partnerships Transform Crisis Response
In Ocean County, New Jersey, Bright Harbor Healthcare (BHH) is marking Police Week by highlighting its innovative partnerships with local law enforcement agencies that are transforming responses to individuals experiencing mental health crises and other specialized needs.
“As National Police Week comes to a close, BHH would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our Ocean County Law Enforcement partners for their commitment to community well-being,” said Kelly DeLeon, Project Manager of Bright Harbor Healthcare. “Through our On POINT, ARRIVE Together, and LEAD programs, we’ve witnessed first-hand the positive impact of collaboration in supporting individuals in crisis with dignity and respect.”
The ARRIVE Together initiative pairs mental health professionals with police officers to respond to calls involving individuals in psychological distress. This co-responder model has reduced unnecessary hospitalizations and arrests by 37% since its implementation in 2023, according to New Jersey Department of Health.
Community Impact and Future Expansion
The Ocean County Sheriff’s Office has documented significant improvements in outcomes for mental health-related calls since implementing these collaborative programs. Having trained clinicians available during crisis calls has transformed their approach, enabling officers to connect people with appropriate services rather than defaulting to arrest or emergency room visits.
The On POINT program specifically addresses homeless individuals and those struggling with substance use disorders, providing immediate access to shelter, food, and treatment options. Since January, the program has assisted over 250 vulnerable residents, connecting them with essential resources and ongoing support.
Toms River Police Department has reported notable success with the LEAD (Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion) program. This initiative allows officers to divert individuals with mental health or substance use issues directly to Bright Harbor services instead of the criminal justice system when appropriate, changing lives while allowing law enforcement to focus resources on more serious criminal matters.
As Police Week observations continue, Bright Harbor and Ocean County law enforcement agencies have announced plans to expand their collaborative programs to include specialized responses for veterans in crisis and enhanced training for officers dealing with individuals with developmental disabilities.
