(BOP) - On May 13, 2025, amidst a steady rain on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., Director William K. Marshall III joined law enforcement leaders from across the country at the 37th annual National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial (NLEOM) Candlelight Vigil. Representing the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP), Director Marshall stood alongside fellow law enforcement leaders, honoring the courage and sacrifice of fallen officers whose names were newly etched into the Memorial’s sacred walls.
The 2025 vigil, a cornerstone of National Police Week, paid tribute to 345 law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice. This included 148 federal, state, tribal, and local officers who lost their lives and whose sacrifices were recently enshrined on the wall. As nearly 30,000 attendees held candles, the “Roll Call of Heroes” was read aloud, each name a testament to the bravery that unites our profession and inspires the communities we serve.
Undeterred by the downpour, Director Marshall and fellow name readers delivered the names of these heroes with unwavering resolve. Their perseverance mirrored the dedication of BOP staff who uphold the highest standards of service and reflected the strength of the communities that stand behind them.
To BOP staff, Director Marshall’s presence is a rallying call to carry forward the legacy of our fallen through their tireless work in ensuring safety and rehabilitation. To the public, it is a reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement and the shared responsibility to support their mission. Whether behind the walls or in communities across the nation, we all play a role in honoring these heroes.