Parson orders Capitol Dome lighted blue in honor of fallen officers

(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) –  Governor Mike Parson has ordered the Missouri State Capitol dome and Missouri Law Enforcement Memorial to be lit blue from sunset tonight until sunrise on Saturday, May 6, 2023.

“Behind every badge is a hero who has sworn to protect and serve, and for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, we will never forget their dedication to making our state a safer place for Missouri families,” Governor Parson said. “Let us honor these courageous individuals and their families still with us today, as we are forever inspired by their selflessness and commitment to our communities.”

The annual ceremonies honoring fallen Missouri law enforcement officers will be held at the Missouri Law Enforcement Memorial on the grounds of the Capitol overlooking the Missouri River.

The 2023 Candlelight Vigil will be held  8 p.m. tonight and the Memorial Service will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturday.

“The 742 officers honored on the Missouri Law Enforcement Memorial paid the ultimate price for their decision to serve the public and make our state a safer place to work and raise a family,” Missouri Department of Public Safety Director Sandy Karsten said. “We are forever indebted to the fallen for their bravery and commitment to public service.”

The names of eight law enforcement and corrections officers who died in the line of duty during 2022 and three recently confirmed past line of duty deaths have been added to the memorial’s Wall of Honor in advance of this year’s ceremonies.