Flags to fly at half-staff

Lincoln Journal Star

Gov. Dave Heineman reminds Nebraskans that

U.S. and Nebraska flags will be flown at half-staff today in observance of Peace Officers’ Memorial Day.

President George W. Bush signed a proclamation on May 9 ordering flags to be flown at half-staff nationwide.

“Peace Officers’ Memorial Day is an opportunity to pay tribute not only to the brave law enforcement officers who have fallen in service to our communities, but also those who carry on their legacy of bravery in their duties today,” Heineman said.

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, 128 officers have lost their lives in the line of duty since 1866. They include federal, state, county, municipal and tribal agency officers, as well as railroad, game and parks, and correctional officers.

Lt. Gov. Rick Sheehy was to speak at a public ceremony honoring Nebraska’s fallen officers today. The event was to be at the Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Center/Nebraska State Patrol Training Academy, 3600 N. Academy Road, in Grand Island.