Thank a Police Officer Day

Thank a Police Officer Day is dedicated to police officers. Celebrated every third Saturday in September, this day encourages people to thank the men and women who work to keep our communities safe, often risking their own lives.

History

The holiday was created by the Whole Truth Project, an organization that supports police officers and advocates for their rights. Its founder, Andrew Hale, worked for many years as a lawyer in Chicago and often defended the interests of law enforcement in court. With this holiday, he expresses gratitude not only to the police but to society as a whole, which relies on their work for safety.

The police as an institution are a relatively new development in cities. During colonial America, military personnel paid by private individuals were responsible for patrolling the streets. This system began in Boston in 1636 and spread to other cities, but it was not very effective—especially as cities grew larger.

The first organized police force was created in London in 1829 by Sir Robert Peel. By the end of the 19th century, almost all large cities had police departments. Early police forces were heavily influenced by politics and sometimes misused. In the 1910s, the modern police system began to take shape, with defined rights and duties for officers and the creation of special training organizations.

How to Take Part

• Congratulate friends and acquaintances who work in law enforcement.
• Say a few kind words to officers you meet on the street.
• Organize or join community events to support police officers.
• Watch your favorite movies or TV series about police officers.
• Learn more about the history and development of the police and share this information online.

When is Thank a Police Officer Day in 2025?

Thank a Police Officer Day is observed on the third Saturday of September each year.

Observations