On Sunday night, people paused to remember law enforcement officers who gave the ultimate sacrifice while serving their communities.
During the 24th annual candlelight vigil, the names of 362 officers were added to the National Law Enforcement Memorial wall.
U.S. Attorney General Eric H. Holder, Jr. addressed the thousands of officers and family members who gathered in Judiciary Square.
“As we read these names, we are reminded that our safety too often comes at a devastating price,” he said. “Especially as we observe National Police Week, we are called to reflect upon—and recommit ourselves to confronting—the challenges and threats that our officers face every time they put on the uniform.”
Joining Holder in lighting the candles and reading the names were COPS President Linda Moon-Gregory and DHS Secretary Janet Napolitano.
“We come to pay our respects to these officers and honor their service and selfless sacrifice. We remember the lives they led and the examples they set in their agencies and departments, and their communities,” she said. “And we recommit ourselves to the cause they served, to uphold the rule of law and the pursuit of justice.”
The tribute to the fallen officers continues Tuesday at 8 a.m. when members of NCIS and USMC lay a wreath at the memorial.
At 11 a.m., thousands are expected to gather in front of the Capitol for the 31st annual National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service. The ceremony will be broadcast live on Officer.com.
Following that service, the FOP and FOP Auxiliary will lay a wreath at the memorial.
Families and colleagues of fallen officers will be attending grief sessions and other seminars at a conference hosted by COPS.