International Day of UN Peacekeepers
May 29 · Level 10 · #126 of 2238
This is the day the United Nations thanks the soldiers, police officers and civilian experts serving in peacekeeping missions, and remembers those who lost their lives on duty. The date recalls the first UN mission, which began in 1948.
How it is celebrated: a wreath-laying ceremony is held at UN Headquarters in New York, and the Dag Hammarskjöld Medal is awarded in memory of peacekeepers who died in service.
The General Assembly created the observance in 2002. Peacekeepers are nicknamed Blue Helmets, after the colour of the headgear that makes them easy to spot.