Behind the Badge Foundation Launches Yearlong Campaign for Washington State Law Enforcement Memorial's 20th Anniversary

The Behind the Badge Foundation has launched a yearlong campaign marking the 20th anniversary of the Washington State Law Enforcement Memorial, a significant milestone in honoring law enforcement personnel who have made the ultimate sacrifice. The 'WSLEM20: Two Decades. One Promise.' campaign began in June 2025 and will continue through May 2026, commemorating two decades since the Memorial's dedication on the Capitol Campus in Olympia.

The Washington State Law Enforcement Memorial stands as Washington's most solemn tribute to fallen officers, honoring 346 law enforcement personnel who lost their lives while serving their communities. Over the past twenty years, the Memorial has evolved into a sacred space for remembrance, providing comfort and reflection opportunities for families, fellow officers, and citizens wishing to pay respects to those who gave their lives protecting others. Brian Johnston, Executive Director of Behind the Badge Foundation, emphasized that the campaign represents more than historical reflection, stating that it focuses on remembering why the Memorial matters and honoring every name permanently etched in stone.

The WSLEM20 campaign will feature previously untold stories from the Memorial's history, rare archival materials, and personal accounts from families, colleagues, and community members whose lives have been touched by the Memorial over the past two decades. As part of this comprehensive effort, the Foundation is actively inviting Washington residents to participate by sharing their personal connections to the Memorial through various submission formats. Community members can contribute personal photographs taken at the Memorial, short video testimonials or reflections, written memories or stories about visits to the Memorial, and accounts of how the Memorial has impacted individuals or families.

Selected submissions will be featured throughout the campaign across the Foundation's communication channels, including social media platforms, newsletters, and official website, creating a living tribute to the Memorial's enduring impact on the community. This participatory approach ensures that the campaign reflects the diverse ways the Memorial has served Washington residents over the past twenty years. For those interested in contributing to this important historical preservation effort or learning more about the campaign details, additional information is available at https://behindthebadgefoundation.org/wslem20.

The anniversary campaign holds significant implications for both law enforcement communities and the general public across Washington State. By documenting and sharing the Memorial's history and impact, the Foundation aims to strengthen public understanding of law enforcement sacrifices while preserving institutional memory for future generations. The initiative also serves to reinforce the importance of honoring first responders who risk their lives daily, potentially fostering greater community support for law enforcement personnel and their families. As the campaign progresses through its yearlong duration, it will provide ongoing opportunities for public engagement and education about the vital role law enforcement plays in community safety and the profound sacrifices made in service to others.