In recognition of National Police Week, Sgt. Mike Konecny of the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station arrived in Washington, D.C. Sunday for the Police Unity Tour 2019 ceremonies, officials said.

The annual tour invites cyclists from across the country to make the journey from New Jersey to the nation’s capital during National Police Week for ceremonies that pay tribute to members of law enforcement who died in the line of duty, according to event organizers.

Upon arriving in D.C., Konecny was welcomed with the Police Unity Tour Arrival Ceremony, and attended the 31st annual candlelight vigil the following day, according to Shirley Miller, spokesperson for the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station.

Several Santa Clarita Sheriff’s Station Deputies at last year’s Police Unity Tour ride. (Photo courtesy of Santa Clarita Sheriff’s Station)

The cycling event also acts as a fundraiser, and $2.5 million was donated to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund this year, according to event officials.

President John F. Kennedy initially established National Police Week in 1962, when he proclaimed May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which that day falls as National Police Week.

Events are scheduled throughout the week in Washington D.C. as part of the week of recognition.

The 38th Annual National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service, a signature event of National Police Week, is scheduled for Wednesday in the nation’s capital.

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