WEIS Honors Law Enforcement on National Appreciation Day
CENTRE — Today, WEIS Radio is joining communities across the region and the nation in recognizing and thanking the men and women who serve in law enforcement, as National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day is observed on Friday, January 9, 2026.
From local police departments and sheriff’s offices to state troopers and federal agencies, WEIS extends its sincere gratitude to the officers who work tirelessly—often behind the scenes—to protect local neighborhoods and support residents in times of need. Day in and day out, these professionals make personal sacrifices to ensure the safety, security, and well-being of the communities they serve.
Today, we honor the courage, integrity, and dedication of law enforcement officers who show up every day to serve others. We appreciate their commitment, their sacrifices, and the positive impact they make in our local communities.
National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, often referred to as L.E.A.D., was established in 2015 as a citizen-led initiative designed to express gratitude for the nearly 900,000 law enforcement officers serving across the United States. The day was created to strengthen relationships between law enforcement and the communities they protect, while also recognizing the challenges and risks officers face in the line of duty.
Communities nationwide are encouraged to participate in simple but meaningful ways. Supporters are asked to wear blue clothing or ribbons as a sign of solidarity, send thank-you notes to local, county, or state law enforcement agencies, and share positive messages online using the hashtag #NationalLawEnforcementAppreciationDay. Other gestures include displaying a blue light at homes or businesses as part of “Project Blue Light,” or personally thanking an officer by offering a kind word, a meal, or a cup of coffee.
Several national organizations help champion and support the observance. Concerns of Police Survivors, or C.O.P.S., serves as the primary organization leading the initiative. The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund works year-round to honor fallen officers and provide resources to their families, while the Fraternal Order of Police actively participates in both national and local appreciation efforts.
While National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day focuses on active recognition and gratitude, additional observances are held throughout the year. National Police Week, including Peace Officers Memorial Day, will take place in May 2026 to specifically honor officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
As WEIS emphasizes, appreciation should not be limited to a single day. The station encourages residents to continue showing support and respect for law enforcement professionals throughout the year, recognizing the vital role they play in keeping communities safe.
To all law enforcement officers—local and across the nation—thank you for what you do today and always.
