The Annual California Peace Officers’ Memorial Ceremonies are held the first week of May at the California Peace Officers’ Memorial Monument located on State Capitol grounds in Sacramento. The ceremonies serve to formally enroll Peace Officers who have died in the line of duty the preceding year, pay tribute to the over 1670 officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice since California became a state, and to honor the families left behind.

The ceremonies are a two-day event, beginning with a Candlelight Vigil at the Memorial Monument. At dusk, friends, colleagues, and community members gather at the Memorial Monument while the Honored Officers’ families walk in solidarity to the Memorial Monument to remember and celebrate their loved ones. With welcoming comments from the CPOMF President, remarks from departmental and past survivor representatives, a Roll Call of Heroes, as well as music and prayer, this event is a solemn reminder of the immense sacrifice – not only of our brave heroes – but also of the families and colleagues left behind.

The next morning’s formal ceremonial events include a Memorial Procession for law enforcement vehicles, a Walk of Honor for the immediate family members of officers being enrolled and their department escorts, and the Enrollment Ceremony, where the names of newly-enrolled officers are formally added to the Memorial Monument. This beautiful and reverent ceremony incorporates many traditions including a riderless horse presentation, the folding of the United States Flag, releasing of doves, and concludes with a 21-gun salute and the playing of Taps.

Due to very limited seating, the Enrollment Ceremony is a ticketed event for designated family members and guests. Additional seating is provided so all who wish to attend in support of California’s fallen heroes may view the ceremony on an adjacent large-screen television.