Update: Memorial Service for Fallen Officers From SE Minnesota Moved Indoors Due to Weather

Update: The even has been moved indoors to the Christ United Methodist Church located at 400 5th Ave SW due to forecasted rain and thunderstorms. The start time is unchanged. 

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - The nearly completed Southeast Minnesota Law Enforcement Memorial in Rochester will host its first ever Memorial program Monday evening.

The ceremony will honor and remember more than 40 fallen police officers, Sheriff's deputies, State Troopers, agents of federal law enforcement agencies, and military police personnel from southeastern Minnesota. The event is scheduled to begin at 6 PM in the new Memorial, which is located near the Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial.

Planning for the Law Enforcement Memorial began more than 15 years ago and construction got underway in 2021. Some finishing touches are still being added to the memorial, including a capstone at the entry point and memorial benches.

Fundraising for the project is ongoing and approximately $150,000 is still needed. The Southeast Minnesota Law Enforcement Memorial Foundation is also selling 11 benches planned for installation of the site. Each bench costs $7500.

A formal dedication of the new Memorial is expected to take place later this year. Anyone wishing to donate can do so through the organization's website.

Listen to Olmsted County Sheriff Kevin Torgerson discussing the Southeast Minnesota Law Enforcement Memorial project and the memorial service by clicking below.