Utah Law Enforcement Memorial Completed

During the history of the State of Utah, 126 police officers have been killed in the service of Utah since the arrival of the Mormon pioneers. Until recently, a small Memorial in the State Capitol Rotunda has honored the sacrifice of these men and women. In 2005, extensive renovations to the State Capitol necessitated the removal of the Memorial from the Rotunda. A location on the west side of the Capitol was selected for the construction of a new Memorial.

Memorial construction included thick, cast-in-place concrete walls, a granite clad Wall of Honor, three beautiful and dramatic brass sculptures depicting officers in the service of the State, a bronze medallion covering a pre-cast time capsule box, 126 individual bronze plaques installed over the granite wall, pre-cast benches, crushed granite walkways, site lighting and landscaping.

This project is an example of what can be accomplished because of people’s passion and generosity. Once it was made known that the existing Memorial had to be moved out of the Capitol Rotunda, a committee of volunteers has worked tirelessly to fund the entire project through donation and honor the line of duty deaths of more than 126 police officers. The elements of Memorial include a Medallion created by Springville sculptor Stephen Pratt, designed by Symbol Arts and cast by Eagle Foundry of Lindon. Beneath the Medallion is a 100-year time capsule. Lena Toritch, born in Russia and now living in Utah, was selected to create three beautiful larger-than-life bronze statutes for the site. Kennecott Utah Copper donated the bronze to cast the plaques with the names of 126 police officers, each sponsored by a $1,000 contribution from families, friends and comrades. Bookstands located at either entrance to the Memorial will contain information regarding the construction of the Memorial, contributors, as well as stories and photographs of the fallen. Sahara, Inc. was honored to be able to facilitate the construction of this important project and donated 100% of its profit to the project, as did many of the subcontractors.

The finished memorial was dedicated on September 6, 2008.

ARROW See Deseret News Article

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