Flags around the state are being flow at half-staff today to mark the annual observance of Peace Officers Memorial Day, according to Gov. Brian Schweitzer's office.

The Helena Police Department will send a few officers to Missoula Saturday to participate in the Montana Peace Officers Memorial Ceremony and parade.

"It is one day a year that we can remember and the citizens can remember the officers who have come before and given their lives to their community and county," Police Chief Troy McGee said.

President Bush earlier this week signed the order for the observance and to mark the week of May 11-17 as National Police Week.

McGee said it is nice to be appreciated and to show how important law enforcement is to the communities.

May 15 was designated Peace Officers Memorial Day by a joint resolution of Congress in 1962. Police Week is the week on which May 15 falls.

"As we observe Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week, we pause to pay tribute to those who serve in law enforcement," said a press release from the White House. "On this occasion, we especially remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, and we pray for the families and friends they have left behind.

"We thank all the extraordinary American men and women who have answered the call to serve in law enforcement for their commitment to justice and to their communities."