SCR 23: California Peace Officers’ Memorial Day.

WHEREAS, Monday, May 5, 2025, is California Peace Officers’ Memorial Day, a day Californians observe in commemoration of those noble officers who have tragically sacrificed their lives in the line of duty; and

WHEREAS, Although California citizens are indebted to our California peace officers each day of the week, we make particular note of our peace officers’ bravery and dedication, and we share in their losses on California Peace Officers’ Memorial Day; and

WHEREAS, Peace officers have a job second in importance to none, and it is a job that is as difficult and dangerous as it is important; and

WHEREAS, California peace officers have worked dutifully and selflessly on behalf of the people of this great state, regardless of the peril or hazard to themselves; and

WHEREAS, By the enforcement of our laws, these same peace officers have safeguarded the lives and property of the citizens of California and have given their full measure to ensure these citizens the right to be free from crime and violence; and

WHEREAS, Special ceremonies and observations on behalf of California peace officers provide all Californians with the opportunity to appreciate the heroic individuals who have dedicated their lives to preserving public safety; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate of the State of California, the Assembly thereof concurring, That the Legislature recognizes California’s peace officers who were killed in defense of their communities in 2024:

Officer Matthew Bowen, Vacaville Police Department, End of Watch: July 11, 2024.

Deputy Alfredo M. Flores, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, End of Watch: April 20, 2024.

Officer Austin Christopher Machitar, San Diego Police Department, End of Watch: August 26, 2024.

Resolved, That the Legislature also recognizes a California peace officer who was killed in defense of their community in prior years, but not yet enrolled:

Officer Chad E. Swanson, Manhattan Beach Police Department, End of Watch: October 4, 2023.

Resolved, That the Legislature also recognizes California’s distant past honored officer:

Officer Terry D. Long, El Monte Police Department, End of Watch: August 22, 2004; and be it further

Resolved, That the Legislature designates Monday, May 5, 2025, as California Peace Officers’ Memorial Day and urges all Californians to remember those individuals who have given their lives for our safety and express appreciation to those who continue to dedicate themselves to making California a safer place to live and raise our families; and be it further

Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.