In Springfield, Illinois, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of Illinois is observing National Police Week by recognizing the contributions and sacrifices of law enforcement officers at various levels. This annual observance runs from May 11 to May 17, 2025.
Acting U.S. Attorney Gregory M. Gilmore expressed gratitude towards law enforcement officers, stating, “We honor the dedicated and brave law enforcement officers across the country and here in the Central District of Illinois... Every day, these officers go to work to make our communities safer." He acknowledged the dangers faced by these officers and extended thoughts and prayers to those who have lost their lives in service.
National Police Week traces its origins back to 1962 when President Kennedy established Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week as a time to honor fallen law enforcement personnel. Peace Officers Memorial Day occurs annually on May 15.
The Central District of Illinois remembers those who were killed in action in recent years, including Illinois State Police Trooper Corey S. Thompson, who died in a traffic accident on October 18, 2024.
According to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, 148 officers across different agencies died while serving in 2024. The names of over 345 fallen officers will be read during the Annual Candlelight Vigil on May 13, 2025, at Washington D.C.'s National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial.
For more information about National Police Week events or to view a livestream of the vigil, visit https://nleomf.org/memorial/programs/national-police-week-2025/candlelight-vigil/ or www.policeweek.org.
