Each year in May, communities across the nation honor the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. For the Lexington County community, this time is particularly touching as residents gather to commemorate the Fallen Officers Memorial.
“It is important to pause and remember those officers who paid the ultimate sacrifice so we can enjoy the great community we have,” emphasizes Sheriff Jay Koon. “Their dedication and devotion to our profession resulted in what we have today.”
Although Lexington County’s Fallen Officers Memorial was built in 2010, it stands as a symbol of resilience and the unwavering dedication of law enforcement personnel dating back to 1897. Its establishment traces back to the vision of Lexington Police Chief Terrence Green, who sought to create a sacred space for remembrance. Through fundraising efforts and community involvement, such as barbeque chicken sales and planting flowers, Chief Green’s vision became a reality.
National Police Week, observed annually in May and aligning with the Memorial Service’s date, holds deep significance for those around the nation. It is a time when individuals from all walks of life come together to honor the memory of fallen law enforcement officers. This act of remembrance serves not only to honor their bravery and commitment but also to inspire future generations to uphold the values of service and sacrifice.
For Sheriff Koon and the Lexington County community, the memorial’s impact is profound. “It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made for community safety,” he reflects. “Each name engraved in gold lettering represents a life lost in service—an important reminder of the inherent risks faced by those who wear the badge.”
The significance of National Police Week extends beyond mere remembrance. It is a time for the community to come together in solidarity, demonstrating their appreciation and respect for law enforcement. It is a time for people to reaffirm their commitments to supporting those who selflessly serve and protect us each day.
As the Lexington County community gathers this year and in the future to pay tribute to our fallen heroes, we reaffirm our commitment to upholding their legacy of honor, courage and sacrifice, as embodied by the Law Enforcement Memorial Service.
Interested in working in an environment that feels like a family dedicated to making a difference? Check out our current job opportunities. Any questions about qualifications or our application process, please contact us.
If you would like to join LCSD and other community members for the Memorial Service, event details are as follows:
Date: May 16, 2024
Time: 9:30 am
Location: Mark Westbrook Judicial Center, 205 E. Main Street, Lexington, South Carolina 29072