The Distressed Thin Blue Line Flag: A Symbol of Sacrifice and Solidarity

The "Distressed Thin Blue Line Flag" holds a unique place in the hearts of law enforcement officers and their supporters. This specific version shown on the page was created by Matthew Zalewski in February 2016 while he was attending a Law Enforcement Academy, this image is a powerful tribute to the grit, perseverance, and danger faced by those who serve and protect. Matt designed the flag to show solidarity with law enforcement officers, especially those who have been wounded, injured, or killed in the line of duty.

The flag’s distressed appearance—featuring cracks, damage, bullet holes, and grunge—symbolizes the harsh realities of a law enforcement career. This specific design, copyrighted under the name “Distressed Blue Line and Stripes,” has been protected since October 18, 2018.

The image gained widespread attention on July 7, 2016, following the tragic Dallas Police Department incident, where five officers were killed, and nine others were injured during a downtown protest. This heartbreaking event catapulted the flag into the national spotlight as a symbol of mourning and support for the law enforcement community.

Since then, the flag has been used to honor many officers who were killed or wounded in the line of duty. Matt himself created variations of the image to memorialize colleagues and friends, including Jason Fann and Joshua Bartlett, who tragically lost their lives in service.

On April 29, 2019, the flag took on even deeper significance when it was used to honor Matt himself, after he was shot and wounded in the line of duty while attempting to apprehend a fugitive.

For those who understand its origins, the "Distressed Thin Blue Line Flag" is a profound and meaningful emblem. However, it has not been without controversy. Some media outlets and politically motivated individuals have attempted to label this and similar symbols as racist, fascist, or otherwise negative. Despite these claims, the true intent behind the image remains steadfast: it is a tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line every day.

The "Distressed Thin Blue Line Flag" continues to stand as a reminder of the courage, challenges, and sacrifices made by the men and women in blue. It is not just an image—it is a testament to their enduring commitment to protect and serve.