#United States #Washington, D.C. #law enforcement #National Police Week #Candlelight Vigil

Honoring Our Fallen Heroes: National Candlelight Vigil 2025

Each year, Washington, D.C. becomes a poignant gathering point for thousands who come together in remembrance of those involved in law enforcement who sacrificed their lives in service to the public. This year, on May 13, 2025, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) will host the 37th Annual Candlelight Vigil, where the names of 345 law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty will be honored and etched into the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial.

This year’s memorial will see the engraving of names of officers who tragically succumbed to their duties, with notable figures such as 148 federal, state, tribal, and local law enforcement officers lost in the year 2024 alone. This statistic reflects a 25% increase in line-of-duty deaths compared to the previous year, revealing both a challenge and a call to action for law enforcement communities across the nation.

A Ceremony of Reflection and Remembrance

The Candlelight Vigil is more than just a ceremony; it is a heartfelt tribute that unites those connected by loss. According to William Alexander, CEO of the NLEOMF, “As we gather once more to honor our fallen officers, we're reminded not only of the lives they gave, but of the unwavering devotion that led them to serve.” On this night, the National Mall will be illuminated by candles held by attendees, symbolizing the light that these brave individuals brought to their communities before their untimely deaths.

In 2025, attendees can expect a solemn yet uplifting experience, as the event hosts approximately 30,000 participants including family members, friends, fellow officers, and community supporters. The gathering provides not only an opportunity to reflect on the past but also to instill strength in the hearts of those present.

The memorial features a significant milestone as it will mark the addition of 197 officers from previous years to the list of honorees, finally recognized for their bravery and dedication after thorough research and confirmation by the memorial fund's team. With these new additions, the total number of officers memorialized will reach 24,412.

Engraving Process: A Labor of Love

The engraving of these names is performed with the utmost respect and precision, involving a detailed stencil and proofing process followed by meticulous work to ensure the integrity and longevity of each inscription. The engraving ceremony begins early in April, with officials and staff overseeing the process starting on April 14, 2025. It is a meticulous task that exemplifies the care taken to preserve the legacies of these officers.

To find the full list of names being added this year, individuals can access the Roll Call of Heroes, 2025, which will be published online. For anybody wishing to experience the emotions and strength drawn from the Candlelight Vigil, further information, including the complete schedule of events during National Police Week in Washington, D.C., is available at www.LawMemorial.org/PoliceWeek.

A Mission of Honor

The NLEOMF, founded in 1984, is committed to telling the story of American law enforcement while ensuring that the sacrifices of those who have laid down their lives are never forgotten. Alongside this dedication, the fund works tirelessly towards making the profession safer for future generations.

This year's Candlelight Vigil will stand as a powerful reminder of the significant sacrifices made by law enforcement officers throughout the history of the United States and will further enlighten the communities they protect. It is not just a commemoration; it is a call to acknowledge the ongoing journey towards understanding and support for all those who wear the badge.

Join us as we remember and honor those who gave everything in the line of duty.

For more information about the memorial and the National Law Enforcement Memorial Fund, visit their official website at nleomf.org/memorial.