On September 11, my wife and I visited the Pikes Peak Region Peace Officers’ Memorial in Colorado Springs—a quiet act of remembrance in a place built to honor courage and sacrifice.

Dedicated in 2018 after years of planning, the memorial spans 71,000 square feet in Memorial Park. At its center lies a bronze lion sculpture, modeled after the Lion of Lucerne, symbolizing protection and loss. The lion faces the Veterans Memorial, underscoring the bond between military and law enforcement service.

Behind it, a curved wall displays bronze shields from 22 regional agencies, illuminated by a thin blue line. A 200-foot Walk of Honor features engraved pavers donated by citizens and officers alike. Together, these elements commemorate 32 peace officers from El Paso and Teller Counties who died in the line of duty since 1895.

The memorial is more than a monument—it’s a reflection of our community’s values. It reminds us that behind every badge is a story, a family, and a legacy worth remembering. On a day marked by national tragedy, this space offers a local lens on service, sacrifice, and the enduring strength of those who protect us.