The Behind the Badge Foundation has launched a yearlong campaign marking the 20th anniversary of the Washington State Law Enforcement Memorial, honoring the memory of Washington's fallen officers through community engagement and historical preservation. The 'WSLEM20: Two Decades. One Promise.' campaign, which began 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 solemn tribute to fallen officers, honoring 346 law enforcement personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their communities.
The Memorial has become a place of remembrance for families, fellow officers, and citizens seeking to pay their respects to those who gave their lives protecting others. Brian Johnston, Executive Director of Behind the Badge Foundation, emphasized the Memorial's significance, stating that this Memorial is 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 the Memorial's historical significance and community impact.
The WSLEM20 initiative will feature previously untold stories from the Memorial's history, rare archival materials, and personal accounts from the families, colleagues, and community members whose lives have been touched by the Memorial over the past two decades. Johnston noted that this campaign isn't just about looking back—it's about remembering why this Memorial matters and honoring the sacrifice of every name etched in stone. A key component of the anniversary celebration involves public participation.
The Foundation is inviting Washington residents to share their connections to the Memorial by submitting 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, creating a living tribute to the Memorial's impact on the community. For those interested in participating in the commemorative activities, campaign information and submission guidelines are available at https://behindthebadgefoundation.org/wslem20.
The Behind the Badge Foundation, which oversees and maintains the Washington State Law Enforcement Memorial, continues its mission of offering compassion and practical assistance to survivors, agencies, families, and communities following law enforcement line-of-duty deaths or injuries. Additional information about the Foundation's work can be found at https://behindthebadgefoundation.org. This anniversary campaign serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing importance of honoring those who have sacrificed their lives in law enforcement, while also strengthening community connections to this enduring symbol of service and sacrifice.
