Why We Exist

Why We exist

The Badge of Honor Memorial Foundation was created to ensure that the families of law enforcement officers who lose their lives in the line of duty are not left to navigate their grief alone. In recent years, the number of officers killed while serving their communities has risen dramatically. These men and women often come from small towns and communities that may lack the experience or resources to support their families during such tragedies. Every two days, an officer dies in the line of duty, yet many of these deaths go unnoticed by major news outlets, leaving grieving families without public acknowledgment or sufficient support.
When such a loss occurs, police departments and families are often unprepared for the overwhelming process of securing the statutory benefits these officers are entitled to. With over 21,000 law enforcement agencies in the U.S., the majority have never faced the death of an officer in the line of duty and may lack the resources for casualty planning. That’s where the Badge of Honor Memorial Foundation steps in.

Our Foundation works proactively, reaching out to departments within 24 hours of an officer’s death, offering critical guidance on casualty planning and helping families secure federal and state benefits. We believe that no widow should be burdened with complex paperwork, no child should lose access to education due to financial strain, and no department should have to “pass the hat” to provide for a grieving family.

At the core of our existence is the unwavering belief that these officers, who gave everything to protect their communities, deserve to have their families protected and cared for in the aftermath of their loss. We serve as advocates, ensuring that their families receive the full extent of benefits and support they are entitled to. Our mission is to preserve the bond of brotherhood shared by law enforcement officers and to honor the sacrifice made by those who serve by standing beside their families when it’s needed most.

We exist to provide comfort, support, and advocacy, ensuring that the legacy of fallen officers is honored, and their families are not left to navigate this journey alone.