FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
State Rep. Bill Kortz D-Allegheny www.pahouse.com/kortz

Kortz asking 38^th residents to recognize Peace Officer Memorial Day

HARRISBURG, May 12 – This Thursday, May 15, is Peace Officer Memorial Day, which honors officers killed in the line of duty, and state Rep. Bill Kortz, D-Allegheny, is asking residents in the 38^th Legislative District to fly their flags at half-staff.

Kortz is also requesting residents to fly something blue for the rest of the month of May to honor all police officers for the exceptional job they do protecting the residents of Pennsylvania.

"I feel it's our duty to recognize members of law enforcement who play an essential role in safeguarding the rights and freedoms of our communities," Kortz said. "It's so important for all residents to know and understand the responsibilities, hazards and sacrifices that law enforcement personnel make for them every day."

Peace Officers' Memorial Day was first observed in 1962 when President John F. Kennedy signed a law setting aside the day each year to remember and honor police officers. The law was later amended by Congress and President Bill Clinton in 1994 to direct that the U.S. flag be flown at half-staff on all government buildings on May 15 each year.

"Peace Officers' Memorial Day is a time when we must honor those law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their community," Kortz said. "Additionally, flying the color blue symbolizes our respect and admiration for our local heroes who make it their duty to serve and protect us."

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