Honoring Minnesota’s Fallen Heroes: A Commitment to Remembrance

The Minnesota Fraternal Order of Police Foundation is proud to support the Minnesota Law Enforcement Memorial Association (LEMA) with a $2000 donation, contributing to the organization’s vital mission of honoring fallen law enforcement officers. Founded in 1974 by Jim Crawford, LEMA has been a pillar of support for the families of Minnesota’s fallen officers, ensuring they receive the respect and comfort they deserve during times of unimaginable loss.

A Legacy of Dignity and Honor

LEMA was established to provide dignified, full-honor funerals for officers who die in the line of duty. Since its inception, the organization has supported families through over 100 such tragedies, offering services that include a Caisson Horse team, a rifle team for military honors, and a flag-folding ceremony to present an American flag to the officer’s loved ones. These acts of respect provide solace and recognition of the ultimate sacrifice made by Minnesota’s law enforcement heroes.

As an all-volunteer organization, LEMA’s 15 board members and 35 Honor Guard members—comprising active and retired officers, survivors of fallen officers, and community supporters—work tirelessly to uphold this mission. Their dedication ensures that every fallen officer is remembered with the utmost dignity, and their families are supported through grief.

The Minnesota State Memorial: A Solemn Tribute

Each year, LEMA organizes a powerful tribute during the Minnesota State Memorial on May 14th and 15th, held at the monument first erected at the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport in 1977. This event, aligned with National Law Enforcement Memorial Day as declared by President John F. Kennedy in 1962, honors all Minnesota officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice since 1874.

During the 25-hour vigil, officers from across the state stand guard at the memorial, reading aloud the names and end-of-watch dates of fallen officers. LEMA’s Honor Guard, with a precision rifle inspection every 20 minutes, walks the Thin Blue Line, symbolizing the unwavering commitment of law enforcement. A particularly moving moment includes canine officers and their partners, who sit in quiet remembrance of both human and canine heroes lost in the line of duty.

A Shared Commitment to Remembrance

The Minnesota Fraternal Order of Police Foundation’s donation underscores its commitment to preserving the legacy of fallen officers and supporting their families. By partnering with LEMA, the Foundation helps ensure that these heroes are never forgotten and that their loved ones receive the care and respect they deserve.

The community is invited to learn more about LEMA’s mission and how to support its work at mnlema.org. Together, we can honor Minnesota’s fallen law enforcement officers and stand with their families in remembrance.