At the direction of Governor Tom Corbett, all US & Pennsylvania flags at Commonwealth facilities statewide are to be flown at half-staff on Tuesday, May 15, to recognize National Peace Officers Memorial Day.

Peace Officers Memorial Day was created by Congress to honor the memory of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty.  Private residences and businesses are also encouraged to fly flags at half-staff on that day.

On this day, we pay tribute to the local, state and federal law enforcement officers who provide a vital public service and play an essential role in safeguarding the rights and freedoms of our citizens.  We honor them for their character, leadership and courage.

Pennsylvania Officers killed in the line of duty during 2011 include Deputy Sheriff Kyle D. Pagerly of the Berks County Sheriff's Department; Police Officer Robert A. Lasso of Freemansburg Borough Police Department; Police Officer Derek Kotecki of City of Lower Burrell Police Department; and Police Officer John David Dryer of East Washington Borough Police Department.

All Pennsylvanians are authorized to join in this tribute.