January 9

National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day

Show your support for law enforcement officers on National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day - thank them for their service and dedication!

Yearly Date
January 9
Type
Day
Category
Cause

Introduction

Show your appreciation for law enforcement officers on National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, January 9! This holiday was created in 2015 to honor the brave men and women who put their lives on the line each day to protect our communities. It's an opportunity to recognize all of their hard work and dedication throughout the year, from keeping us safe at home to protecting us abroad. Whether you give a special thank you or treat them with a small gesture such as flowers or dinner, this is one day that everyone can come together and show how much we appreciate them.

National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day Timeline

1636
First Law Enforcement Agency
The first known organized law enforcement system in the United States, the Boston Watch, was established.
1845
Establishment of NYPD
New York City forms its first official police department, setting a precedent for modern law enforcement agencies in America.
1871
Secret Service Formation
The United States Secret Service, initially established to suppress counterfeit currency, was formed, later expanding its responsibilities to include presidential security.
1962
Police Week Proclamation
President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which it falls as Police Week.
2003
Formation of Department of Homeland Security
Post 9/11, the Department of Homeland Security was formed to coordinate and oversee national security in response to terrorist threats.
2015
First National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day
Organizations across the U.S. came collectively to celebrate the first National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day on January 9, 2015.

How to Celebrate National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day

1

Write an appreciation letter

Take the time to write a heartfelt letter of appreciation to your local law enforcement agency or individual officer. Express your gratitude for all that they do to keep your family, friends, and community safe.

2

Attend a police event

Look up events in your local area that celebrate National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. These events give you the opportunity to show support and meet the officers in person.

3

Share a kind word

Take the time to thank an officer for their service whenever you encounter one in public. Even a simple “thank you” can make a difference.

4

Organize a fundraiser

Hosting a fundraiser is an effective way to show your appreciation. Whether it’s raising money for charities related to law enforcement or buying supplies and equipment, showing your support through financial contributions helps make a difference.

5

Wear blue clothing

Show your support for law enforcement by wearing blue on National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. Encourage your friends and family members to join you in wearing blue as well.

Why National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day is Important

A

It shows appreciation for the sacrifices made by law enforcement personnel

Law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every single day to protect and serve our communities. National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day is a time to honor these courageous men and women for the tremendous sacrifice they have made in order to keep us safe.

B

It brings attention to the dangers of being a police officer

Every year, thousands of police officers are killed or injured in the line of duty. These brave individuals deserve recognition for their dedication and bravery, as well as increased safety measures that can help reduce preventable deaths from occurring.

National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Jan 9
Monday
2024
Jan 9
Tuesday
2025
Jan 9
Thursday
2026
Jan 9
Friday
2027
Jan 9
Saturday