The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) is reminding the public to fly flags at half mast on Sunday, Peace Officers Memorial Day.

This tribute to American law enforcement officers is part of the historic crime bill that President Bill Clinton signed into law in 1994. At the request of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, Public Law 103-322 designates Peace Officers Memorial Day as one of only two days each year during which government agencies, businesses and residents are to fly their U.S. flags at half staff. The other is Memorial Day.

"Just as we honor those who died in military service each Memorial Day, our nation pauses each May 15th to show its appreciation for the more than 19,000 men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in protecting our communities and safeguarding our democracy here at home," according to Craig W. Floyd, Memorial Fund chairman and CEO. "Lowering flags to half staff on Peace Officers Memorial Day is also a way to remember the family members, friends and colleagues these brave American heroes left behind."

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy designated May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day. The calendar week in which May 15 falls is National Police Week; this year's commemoration occurs from May 15-21.

As part of National Police Week, the names of 152 law enforcement officers killed in 2010, as well as 164 others who died in prior years, will be formally dedicated on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C., on Friday (May 13), during the 23rd Annual Candlelight Vigil.