TOPEKA, Kan. — Gov. Laura Kelly signed an executive order Tuesday establishing an annual day to honor Kansas law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty and recognize those who continue to serve.
Kansas Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Day will be observed on the first Friday in May, beginning May 7, 2027. Flags will fly at half-staff across the state.
“Beginning in 2027, the first Friday of every May will be a day to remember Kansas law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty, and to recognize those who continue to serve,” Kelly said.
State and local law enforcement officers joined Kelly at the Statehouse for the Oct. 6 signing.
Kansas Highway Patrol Superintendent Erik Smith thanked Kelly for the order and praised her support for law enforcement.
“She’s made it a priority to invest in law enforcement, to invest in pay, in benefits, in technology and in training,” Smith said.
According to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, more than 30 Kansas law enforcement officers have died while on duty since 2004.
“We may never know what an officer will face when they begin their shift, but we know that every day, they choose to serve their community and protect their neighbors,” Kelly said.
Officials hope law enforcement agencies and schools across Kansas will participate in the annual observance by taking time to recognize fallen officers.