FROM sunrise to sunset today, U.S. and CNMI flags will fly at half-mast as the commonwealth commemorates Peace Officers Memorial Day, which will be observed in America and its insular areas.
“I have been notified that the president of the United States has proclaimed that on May 15, 2002, Peace Officers Memorial Day, all flags are to be half-mast. I ask that you and your staff observe the flying of all flags in the commonwealth at half-mast from sunrise until sundown,” Gov. Juan N. Babauta said in a directive issued Monday to all executive branch departments and agencies.
There will be ceremonies honoring peace officers today at the Department of Public Safety central headquarters in Susupe.
Last night, a police candlelight vigil parade was held from the Carolinian utt to American Memorial Park.
Babauta said Peace Officers Memorial Day is in honor of “all police officers who have been called to make the ultimate sacrifice.”
In signing the Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week Proclamation, President Bush encouraged all Americans to display the flag at half-staff from their homes.
Bush said law enforcement officers encounter grave risk to protect the rights and freedoms “we enjoy as Americans.”
The president said the observance will provide an opportunity to recognize the selfless dedication of the brave men and women who devote their lives to protecting and serving the communities.
“This nation owes a considerable debt of gratitude to all law enforcement officers. We pause to honor those officers who made the ultimate sacrifice while performing their sworn duty,” Bush said in his proclamation.
