Burgum declares May 12-18 Police Week in North Dakota and orders flags to be flown at half-staff on May 15 for Peace Officers Memorial Day

BISMARCK, N.D. – Gov. Doug Burgum issued one proclamation Declaring May 12-18 as North Dakota Police Week and Wednesday, May 15, Peace Officer Memorial Day. The governor directed government agencies to fly the United States and North Dakota flags at half-staff on Wednesday, May 15, and encouraged North Dakota residents to do the same in their homes and businesses in observance of Peace Officers Memorial Day.

“On Peace Officers Memorial Day, we honor the heroes who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty and recognize all who put themselves at risk every day in the fight against crime, violence and terrorism,” Burgum said. “We are forever grateful to these fallen officers, including the 69 North Dakotans who lost their lives in the line of duty, and we extend our gratitude and support to their families today and every day.” During Police Week, we also recognize our uniformed officers State for their dedicated service to our communities and faithful devotion to their duty to serve and protect the safety and security of our citizens.”

North Dakota’s annual Peace Officers Memorial Service will be held today, May 9, at 7 p.m. in Memorial Hall at the State Capitol, 600 E. Boulevard Ave., Bismarck. Scheduled speakers include Burgum, Attorney General Drew Wrigley, Superior Court Judge Douglas Bahr, Burleigh County Sheriff Kelly Leben, Fargo Police Chief David Zibolski and Mercer County Deputy Mark Schmitt. The public is warmly invited to attend.

As a sign of respect and support for all law enforcement officers, the Capitol windows will also be illuminated today and Friday to display a “thin blue line” at dusk.