Honoring Heroes: The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial
Visit the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C. to honor the bravery of fallen officers and reflect in a serene and historic setting.
Nestled in the heart of Washington, D.C., the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial stands as a poignant tribute to the courageous men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their communities. Unveiled in 1991, this memorial honors over 22,000 law enforcement officers whose names are etched into the granite walls, each representing a story of valor and dedication. The memorial is surrounded by beautifully landscaped grounds, offering a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling city, making it an ideal place for reflection and remembrance. As you stroll through the site, you will encounter two striking bronze statues that symbolize the spirit of law enforcement. The larger-than-life figures depict a police officer and a K9, serving as a reminder of the partnership between humans and their canine companions in the pursuit of justice. Visitors are encouraged to take their time to absorb the significance of this sacred space, where the stories of bravery come alive through the names inscribed on the walls. The memorial is not only a historical landmark but also serves as an educational resource. It hosts various events throughout the year, including National Police Week, which draws thousands of attendees from across the country to honor the fallen. Whether you are a history buff, a supporter of law enforcement, or simply seeking a moment of peace, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial offers a profound experience that resonates long after your visit. Don’t forget to explore the accompanying museum, which delves deeper into the history and contributions of law enforcement officers in America.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a quieter experience.
- Consider participating in National Police Week events if you're visiting in May.
- Take time to read the names on the memorial walls; each name tells a story of sacrifice.
- Check the memorial's official website for any guided tours or special exhibits.
- Bring a camera; the memorial's design and sculptures offer great photo opportunities.
A brief summary to National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial
- 450 F St NW, Washington, Penn Quarter, District of Columbia, 20001, US
- +1202-737-3400
Getting There
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Metro
From Gaithersburg, walk to the Gaithersburg Metro Station located at 100 S Frederick Ave. Take the Red Line train towards Glenmont. After approximately 30 minutes, disembark at the Gallery Place-Chinatown station. Transfer to the Yellow Line train towards Greenbelt. Get off at the L'Enfant Plaza station and switch to the Blue Line towards Largo Town Center. Ride for 2 stops and get off at the Federal Center SW station. From there, walk northwest on D Street SW towards 4th Street SW for about 10 minutes until you reach 450 F St NW, where the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial is located.
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Bus
Walk to the nearest bus stop at Gaithersburg Library on 18330 Montgomery Village Ave. Board the Ride On bus # 55 towards the Rockville Metro station. After about 25 minutes, get off at the Rockville Metro Station. From here, take the Red Line train towards Glenmont and get off at the Gallery Place-Chinatown stop. Then, transfer to the Yellow Line train towards Greenbelt and ride it to the L'Enfant Plaza station. Finally, switch to the Blue Line towards Largo Town Center for 2 stops and disembark at the Federal Center SW station. Walk northwest on D Street SW for about 10 minutes to reach the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial at 450 F St NW.
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Walking & Metro
If you prefer to walk, you can walk to the Gaithersburg Metro Station from wherever you are in Gaithersburg. Once there, take the Red Line towards Glenmont. After approximately 30 minutes, get off at the Gallery Place-Chinatown station. From there, walk to the nearby L'Enfant Plaza Metro station and catch the Blue Line towards Largo Town Center. Get off at the Federal Center SW station. Walk northwest on D Street SW for about 10 minutes to reach the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial at 450 F St NW.
Attractions Nearby to National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial
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National Building Museum
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Capital One Arena
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Clara Barton Missing Soldiers Office
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DC Design Tours
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Secret Food Tours Washington D.C.
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Unlimited Biking
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National Portrait Gallery
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Donald W. Reynolds Center for American Art and Portraiture
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Smithsonian American Art Museum
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Chinatown
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US Navy Memorial Visitor Center
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USA Guided Tours
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Signature Tours Of DC
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National Gallery of Art
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National Archives Museum
Landmarks nearby to National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial
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E. Barrett Prettyman United States Court House
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Chinatown Arch
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Calvary Baptist Church
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Federal Bureau of Investigation Headquarters
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National Japanese American Memorial
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Ford's Theatre National Historic Site
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U.S. Department of Justice
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Taft Memorial Carillon
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Peace Monument
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Summerhouse
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Ulysses S. Grant Memorial
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Old Post Office Pavilion
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Garfield Memorial
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4 Columbus Circle Northeast
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United States Capitol