In January, 1997, the Wisconsin Law Enforcement Memorial (WLEM) committee started a comprehensive fundraising campaign to raise the funds that were needed to complete the memorial project. The first, and most important, aspect of this campaign was to gather support within our own profession and to recognize and honor, at that time, the more than 200 fellow officers who had made the ultimate sacrifice. Former Governor Tommy Thompson served as Honorary Chair.
The 100% Club started at the Janesville Police Department when Chief George Brunner challenged all of his officers to contribute $20 towards the Wisconsin Law Enforcement Memorial fund. Chief Brunner was successful in getting 100% of his department to contribute. Chief Brunner suggested to the WLEM Board of Directors that all departments around the State of Wisconsin accept the challenge by getting 100% of their department to contribute $20 from each certified officer. In order to be inducted into the 100% Club each agency needed to send in a donation that covered 100% participation from all their certified officers.
The 100% Club became one of the most successful fundraising efforts for the memorial project. When the memorial was dedicated in June, 1998, there were 175 members in the 100% Club resulting in $90,456 in donated funds. Below are the names of the 175 agencies that joined the 100% Club campaign:
Every year in May, we host a ceremony to honor Fallen Officers. This large ceremony hosts many special guests, including dignitaries from around Wisconsin, who come to show their support. We have pictures of the ceremony to begin to capture its impact.
Events
