LEMA History
The Minnesota Law Enforcement Memorial Association (LEMA) was established in 1974 by the vision of Founder Jim Crawford to do more for our Minnesota families after they have experienced the tragedy of an Officer’s Line of Duty Death. Jim still sits on the LEMA Board of Directors today and continues to shape the future of the organization. Since 1974 LEMA has been witness to over 100 Minnesota fallen officers through a full Law Enforcement honors funeral. LEMA has an ongoing mission to support the survivors of fallen officers. Annually on May 15th in honor of President John F. Kennedy’s declaration of National Law Enforcement Memorial Day in 1962, LEMA honors the sacrifice of all Minnesota Law Enforcement Officers and their families whose loved one has made the ultimate sacrifice, dating back as far as 1874.
LEMA is an all-volunteer run organization. The 14 board members and 35 Honor Guard members represent Law Enforcement Officers, survivors of fallen officers, and Law Enforcement supporters. They work selflessly and tirelessly to support the families and survivors of Minnesota fallen officers.