GOV. MALLOY DIRECTS FLAGS TO HALF-STAFF THURSDAY IN RECOGNITION OF PEACE OFFICERS MEMORIAL DAY

(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy, in correspondence with a proclamation from President Barack Obama, is directing U.S. and Connecticut flags to be flown at half-staff on Thursday, May 15, 2014, in recognition of Peace Officers Memorial Day.

The national observance pays tribute to local, state, and federal peace officers who have died in the line of duty and is recognized annually during Police Week, which this year runs from May 11 to 17.

"The men and women who protect our homes and our communities make deep sacrifices in order to ensure that the citizens of our country and our state remain safe," Governor Malloy said. "Those who serve in law enforcement deserve our utmost respect for the work they perform each and every day - oftentimes putting their lives in danger to protect others - and we are a safer state thanks to their service. They come from nearly every walk of life, with a diverse set of backgrounds, training and experience, but they are united by their desire to protect and serve. On Peace Officers Memorial Day, we pay tribute to not only them but also their families, who give so much to our communities and our state, and we thank them tremendously."

Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman said, "We are so grateful to the men and women who dedicate themselves to protecting our families, our neighborhoods, and the freedoms we hold so dear. It is important that we remember the fallen and carry on their good work in our everyday lives. Their absence is deeply felt, and their service and sacrifice - and that of their families - will never be forgotten."

Flags will fly at half-staff Thursday from sunrise through sunset.