Annual Law Enforcement Memorial Pays Tribute to Fallen Officers Across the County
San Diego-area law enforcement agencies came together Wednesday to honor officers, deputies, marshals and agents who died in the line of duty during the annual San Diego County Law Enforcement Memorial ceremony.
This year’s ceremony added the name of Officer Lauren Craven to the Wall of Light at Waterfront Park. Craven, who died on duty last October, was the La Mesa Police Department’s first on‑duty death.
The San Diego County Law Enforcement Memorial Foundation selected the theme “A Time to Remember” to support and uplift the families, colleagues and friends of the fallen. Throughout May, the Wall of Light shines blue in recognition of National Law Enforcement Month.
“May we never become so accustomed to safety that we forget who makes it possible,” La Mesa Police Chief Ray Sweeney said.
During the ceremony, the names of all the fallen officers were read aloud. Traditions included a riderless horse to honor fallen officers, three seats of honor representing fallen officers, a three‑volley salute, a water salute at San Diego Harbor, mounted patrols from multiple agencies and law enforcement bagpipe players. The Foundation provided paper and pencils so families could make rubbings of their loved ones’ names from the memorial.
For those who could not attend, an online memorial lists the names of all fallen officers from across the region.
