Gov. Heineman Reminds Nebraskans to Lower Flags during Peace Officers’ Memorial Day

(Lincoln, Neb.) Gov. Heineman is reminding Nebraskans that U.S. and Nebraska flags will be flown at half-staff on Friday, May 15 in observance of Peace Officers’ Memorial Day. President Barack Obama signed a proclamation on May 11 ordering flags to be flown at half-staff nationwide.

Gov. Heineman said, “I appreciate the work of all the officers who serve the citizens and communities of our state. They have made Nebraska a better place, and we are very grateful for all that they do. We lower our flags in tribute to those we have lost as a way to honor their bravery, remember their courage and demonstrate our gratitude for their sacrifice.”

In 1994, a federal law was enacted encouraging the American flag to be lowered to half-staff every May 15 in remembrance of the more than 15,000 law enforcement officers who have sacrificed their lives in service to their fellow citizens.

In Nebraska, 130 officers have lost their lives in the line of duty since 1866. Those who have made the ultimate sacrifice include federal, state, county, municipal and tribal agency officers, as well as railroad, game and parks, and correctional officers.

Earlier this week, law enforcement and other civil officer representatives dedicated the Nebraska Law Enforcement Memorial and honored Nebraska’s fallen officers. The memorial is located at 409 E. Fonner Park Road near Fire Station 1 and Fonner Park, in Grand Island.