Washington Law Enforcement Memorial Marks 20 Years with Yearlong Tribute Campaign
The Behind the Badge Foundation has launched a yearlong campaign commemorating the 20th anniversary of the Washington State Law Enforcement Memorial, honoring 346 fallen officers while creating a living tribute through community submissions.
The Behind the Badge Foundation has initiated a yearlong campaign marking the 20th anniversary of the Washington State Law Enforcement Memorial, a solemn tribute to law enforcement personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to Washington communities. The 'WSLEM20: Two Decades. One Promise.' campaign, which launched in June 2025 and continues through May 2026, commemorates two decades since the Memorial's dedication on the Capitol Campus in Olympia.
Since its establishment, the Washington State Law Enforcement Memorial has served as Washington's most significant tribute to fallen officers, honoring 346 law enforcement personnel who lost their lives protecting their communities. The Memorial has evolved into a place of remembrance for families, fellow officers, and citizens seeking to pay respects to those who gave their lives in the line of duty. Brian Johnston, Executive Director of Behind the Badge Foundation, emphasized the Memorial's significance, stating it represents sacred ground not just for law enforcement families but for every Washingtonian who understands the cost of public safety.
The anniversary campaign focuses on preserving and sharing the Memorial's historical significance through previously untold stories, rare archival materials, and personal accounts from families, colleagues, and community members impacted by the Memorial over the past twenty years. The Foundation is actively inviting Washington residents to participate by submitting personal photographs taken at the Memorial, short video testimonials or reflections, written memories about visits to the site, and accounts of how the Memorial has affected individuals or families.
Selected submissions will be featured throughout the campaign across the Foundation's communication channels, creating a living tribute to the Memorial's community impact. For those interested in participating or learning more about the WSLEM20 campaign, additional information is available at https://behindthebadgefoundation.org/wslem20. The Behind the Badge Foundation, which oversees and maintains the Memorial, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to offering compassion and practical assistance to survivors, agencies, families, and communities following law enforcement line-of-duty deaths or injuries.
The 20th anniversary campaign represents more than just historical reflection—it serves as a reminder of the ongoing importance of honoring law enforcement sacrifices and maintaining the Memorial's role as a permanent testament to public service. By engaging the community in sharing personal connections, the Foundation aims to ensure the Memorial's legacy continues to resonate with future generations, reinforcing the promise to never forget those who gave their lives protecting Washington communities.