MEMORIAL | UPDATE

Rosa Guixens
Executive Director, Memorial
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund

APRIL | 2024

This is Why We're Here

Friends,

As a law enforcement officer, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington D.C. holds profound significance for me and my colleagues. It stands as a solemn tribute to the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, serving as a stark reminder of the dangers inherent in our profession. Dedicated on October 15, 1991, the memorial honors federal, tribal, state, and local law enforcement officers from all corners of our nation, who have selflessly given their lives to safeguard our communities and uphold the principles of justice and safety.

Carved on the walls of this memorial are the names of 24,067 fallen officers, dating back to the first known death in 1786. Each name represents a life cut short in service to others, a family left behind, and a community forever changed by the loss. What sets this memorial apart is its ever-changing nature: every spring, prior to National Police Week, new names of fallen heroes are added. This ongoing act of remembrance ensures that the sacrifice of our fallen comrades is never forgotten, and their legacies continue to inspire future generations of law enforcement officers.

Standing before the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial, I am reminded of the immense courage and dedication exhibited by those who wear the badge. It serves as a place of reflection, reverence, and honor, where we pay tribute to our fallen colleagues and recommit ourselves to the noble cause of protecting and serving our communities. As we gather here, we are united in our shared commitment to upholding the values of law enforcement and ensuring that the sacrifices of our fallen heroes are remembered and revered for generations to come.

Kind regards,

Rosa Guixens
Executive Director, Memorial
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund