In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15th as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which it falls as National Police Week. Each year, communities across the nation come together to honor the service and sacrifice of law enforcement officers.
This year, the United States Congress has designated May 11–17, 2025, as National Police Week. In Mansfield and across the country, we take this time to express our gratitude to the men and women who serve with dedication and courage.
Peace Officers Memorial Day will be observed on Thursday, May 15th, 2025, and all Mansfield residents are encouraged to pause and honor the officers who protect and serve our community.
We especially remember the brave officers of the Mansfield Police Department who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty:
▪ BRIAN D. EVANS, end of watch on December 26, 2007
▪ MICHAEL R. HUTCHISON, end of watch on February 6, 1976
▪ WILLIAM J. TAYLOR, end of watch on February 26, 1949
▪ JOHN ENGLEHART JR., end of watch on August 7, 1893
Their courage and dedication will never be forgotten. We also ask the community to keep their families in their thoughts.
According to the Officer Down Memorial Page, 165 law enforcement officers died in the line of duty in 2024; a 6% increase from the previous year.
Photo: amphotora / iStock / Getty Images
This includes:
▪ 52 officers who were shot and killed, up from 47 in 2023
▪ 49 officers who died in traffic-related incidents, up from 37 in 2023
▪ 64 officers who died from other causes, including medical emergencies, falling objects, fire-related incidents, and other duty related tragedies
In recognition of National Police Week, Mayor Jodie A. Perry has issued a proclamation officially designating May 11–17, 2025, as Police Week and May 15th as Peace Officers Memorial Day in the City of Mansfield. To honor fallen officers, Mansfield Police Officers will wear mourning bands on their badges throughout the week.