At the 17th Annual Candlight Vigil, more than 20,000 family members, law enforcement officers, and friend of law enforcement gathered at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial to respect, honor, and remember the 153 law enforcement heroes who in 2004 made the ultimate sacrifice, as well as 262 additional fallen heroes whom history had until this point forgotten.

Inspired by remarks from the nation's top law enforcement official, U.S. Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, NLEOMF Chairman Craig W. Floyd, and comforted by vocal tributes delivered by Birmingham, Alabama Police Chief Annetta W. Nunn and former NYPD Officer Daniel Rodriguez, attendees lit candles and gazed up at the blue laser which pierced the night sky as if to proclaim...

...Rest easy, America: The Thin Blue Line remains as strong, as loyal, and as dedicated as ever.