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Where Service Is Remembered and Sacrifice Is Named

Every year, the National Law Enforcement Officer Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony brings together some of the finest men and women in law enforcement for a night dedicated to honoring service, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to protecting others. Presented by GALLS, this event serves as both a celebration of distinguished careers and a powerful reminder of the legacy carried by those who wear the badge.

2026’s ceremony recognized a select group of inductees from across the United States, each chosen through a rigorous nationwide review process. These honorees represent the very best of law enforcement, individuals whose actions have left a lasting impact on their agencies, their communities, and the profession as a whole.

This year’s class reflected that mission in full. From acts of extraordinary bravery to careers defined by leadership and tireless service to one’s community, the 2026 inductees included officers at every caliber of service, from rising young professionals to seasoned veterans.

Among those honored was Kyle Vowinkel, who received the Scherer-Remsberg Lifetime Achievement Award following a career that included service in some of the FBI’s most elite units. His recognition highlighted not just individual accomplishment, but the collective effort behind every successful mission.

“The ceremony was deeply meaningful, especially in a room filled with so many distinguished law enforcement professionals,” Vowinkel said. “The award made me think about the people who stood beside me, the mentors who shaped me, the family who absorbed the cost, and the teammates who gave everything. That is where a career like this really lives.”

The evening also carried moments of reflection, particularly during recognition of fallen officers honored posthumously. The “Never Forgotten” Award, presented in honor of Cody Holte, underscored the enduring commitment to remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice.



For attendees like Tanya Barrett, Executive Director of The McDavid Group Charities, the impact of the ceremony was deeply personal.

“Attending the Law Enforcement Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony was a truly wonderful experience. It was inspiring to see officers from across the United States come together in support and celebration. The ‘Never Forgotten’ Award was especially moving for me, both as a surviving spouse and as someone who leads a charity supporting the families of fallen law enforcement officers,” Barrett said.

“Meeting the mother, brother, and spouse of the honoree, and hearing their gratitude for the ongoing remembrance, was deeply impactful. Knowing Officer Cody Holte’s young son that his father’s legacy will always be honored was a powerful reminder of the importance of never forgetting those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.”

Events like this do not happen without strong support, and that is where GALLS’ role as presenting sponsor stands out. As a leading provider of uniforms and equipment to law enforcement nationwide, GALLS has long demonstrated a commitment that goes beyond outfitting officers. Their partnership with the Hall of Fame reflects a deeper investment in the profession itself, supporting the people, the mission, and the legacy.



“It is a profound honor for GALLS to serve as the presenting sponsor for the National Law Enforcement Officer Hall of Fame,” said CEO Mike Fadden. “This partnership underscores our enduring dedication to the law enforcement professionals who uphold public safety with unwavering resolve.”

While rewarding, law enforcement is not a career built on external recognition. Oftentimes, success goes unacknowledged while any mistakes get amplified and discussed. It is often a thankless career, which is exactly why nights like this are so important.

As any law enforcement professional can tell you, the most important victories are the ones the public never sees: the threat that was neutralized before anyone could get hurt, oftentimes before they even knew they were in danger. The National Law Enforcement Officer Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony ensures these officers’ stories are told, that their sacrifices are acknowledged, and that the next generation can have a shining example to strive toward.

Most importantly, nights like this serve as a reminder that even when the job feels thankless, it is never meaningless.

Founded in 2017, the National Law Enforcement Officer Hall of Fame was created to preserve the history of law enforcement while honoring those who have gone above and beyond in the line of duty. Its mission is simple but critical: ensure that stories of courage, leadership, and sacrifice are never forgotten.

As the Hall of Fame continues to grow, supported by partners like GALLS, its mission remains clear: honor the past, support the present, and ensure that those who serve are never forgotten.
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The opinions reflected in this article are not necessarily the opinions of LET
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