Every May, law enforcement agencies across the country honor those who serve and remember those we’ve lost. At Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD), Police Week is a time of reflection, unity and appreciation. More than ever this year, the events of our local and national observances were powerful reminders of why we wear the badge.
CMPD Police Week: May 5–9
“The Challenge”
CMPD’s local Police Week began Monday, May 5, with the return of “The Challenge,” a grueling physical fitness competition designed to test strength, endurance and teamwork. A total of 60+ teams from agencies across the region ran through Uptown Charlotte, stopping at 10 stations to complete exercises that pushed them to their limits. The competition wasn’t just about winning, but also honoring fallen officers whose names were carried on 25-pound sandbags by each team. In the end, “Too Fit to Quit” defended last year’s title and became back-to-back champions.
Employee Appreciation Luncheon
Also Monday, CMPD employees gathered for the annual Employee Appreciation Luncheon. Employees received tickets for free lunch and dessert from a variety of food trucks.
Fishing Tournament
On Tuesday, officers and staff traded city streets for the calm of Lake Wylie during the department’s fishing tournament. This year, 40 employees participated, casting lines and sharing stories. Lt. Anthony Holzhauer and his guide David Winters took top honors with a 13.9-pound haul of bass. It was a welcome moment of relaxation and connection.
Awards Ceremony
Wednesday’s focus turned to recognition at the Awards Ceremony, where more than 100 employees were honored for acts of bravery, service and sacrifice.
The ceremony took on deeper meaning this year as CMPD posthumously honored Officer Joshua Eyer with the Gold Cross and the Medal of Valor. Officer Eyer died in the unprecedented and tragic events on April 29, 2024. His widow, Ashley Eyer, accepted the honors in his memory. Officers injured during the April 29 attack were recognized with the Purple Heart, underscoring the courage shown during one of CMPD’s most difficult days.
Field Day
Thursday brought a change of pace with the Police Week Field Day at Memorial Stadium. Cornhole, archery and kickball gave employees a chance to compete, laugh and celebrate one another. The Training Division, represented by Major Brian Sanders and Officer Kevin Jackson, won the cornhole tournament, Officer Ryan Botzenmayer earned the top score in archery and Steele Creek Division claimed kickball victory.
Peace Officers Memorial Ceremony
On Friday, CMPD hosted the Peace Officers Memorial Ceremony to honor law enforcement officers in Mecklenburg County who gave their lives in the line of duty. Surrounded by families, colleagues and community, attendees stood in solemn remembrance, vowing never to forget their sacrifice.
That same morning, a different tribute kicked into gear: the 2025 Bike 2 DC – Ride to Honor.
From Charlotte to the Capitol: Bike 2 DC
Since 2007, officers from CMPD and surrounding agencies have bicycled 500 miles from Charlotte to Washington, D.C., as part of Bike 2 DC. This year’s ride carried special weight as participants rode in memory of Officer Joshua Eyer, three fellow North Carolina officers and others across the country who died in the line of duty. Each mile was a tribute to their legacy.
Riders completed the journey over four days, navigating terrain and fatigue with purpose. Along the way, they were supported by volunteers and community members, culminating in a heartfelt welcome in our nation’s capital, where CMPD’s Honor Guard and Officer Eyer’s family waited.
National Police Week: May 11–17
Once in Washington, CMPD joined thousands of officers and families for National Police Week events. From the Candlelight Vigil to the National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service, each moment served to honor and remember those lost.
This year, the names of four North Carolina officers – CMPD Officer Joshua Eyer, Deputy U.S. Marshal Thomas Weeks, and Investigators William Elliott and Samuel Poloche of the N.C. Department of Adult Correction – were added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. Standing in the nation’s capital, side-by-side with agencies from across the country, CMPD officers reflected on their courage, sacrifice and the enduring impact of their service.
A Week to Remember
Police Week 2025 was more than a series of events. It was a time to recognize the strength, courage and compassion of CMPD and the law enforcement profession.
For our recruits, recent Training Academy graduates and future officers, Police Week is a reminder of what it means to serve. It is both solemn and celebratory, and it brings us together in ways that only policing can.
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