The Fallen Officer Memorial Tree
A Message From Cindy Calderon
Dear Friends and Supporters,
As we approach the end of the year and celebrate the joys of the holiday season, I want to take a moment to express my profound appreciation to San Jose Police Chief Paul Joseph, members of the
San Jose Police Department, community members, and generous donors contributed to the success of the Fallen Officer Memorial Tree. Your commitment and support have made a significant impact, honoring the memories of those who bravely served and protected our communities.
The collective efforts of people like you allow us to create meaningful tributes that resonate deeply with our values and mission. Every donation, every hour of work, and every gesture of kindness has played an invaluable role in bringing this project to life.
As we reflect on our shared commitment to service and community this holiday season, I extend my heartfelt thanks to each of you. Your generosity and selflessness illuminate the spirit of this time of year and remind us of the strength we find in unity.
With gratitude,
President, Silicon Valley Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 52
A Lasting Tribute: Honoring Your Hero's Sacrifice
The Journey of the Ornament
Each year, as the names of fallen officers move from shocking headlines to history, the memory of their sacrifice can begin to fade. And along with those names, so too can fade the public’s awareness of the heartbreak endured by the loved ones they left behind.
Several months ago, as your family prepared for another holiday season without your loved one, organizers and volunteers of the Fallen Officer Memorial project were busy remembering your hero and preparing for the annual Fallen Officer Memorial Tree ceremony.
In reverence to the fallen and their families, Lodge 52 of the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) collects the names of officers killed in the line of duty from the Officer Down Memorial Page (ODMP.org) and orders a personalized, laser-etched ornament for each officer.
Designed by Robert James, a now-retired, fifth-generation police officer and “Heroes in Glass” artist, each ornament begins a journey through many caring hands before making its way to you.
The Fallen Officer Memorial Tree ceremony brings together police officers, families, students, scouts, community members, and public dignitaries to honor those who sacrificed their lives in service to others. The evening includes music from the San Jose Police Emerald Society Pipes and Drums, the Pledge of Allegiance, the national anthem, and the playing of Taps.
FOP Lodge President Cindy Calderon speaks about the courage, sacrifice, and commitment to service shown by the fallen, reminding current and future officers to carry that same courage forward. She also shares the story of a fallen officer and introduces members of the families left behind, putting a human face on the sacrifice being remembered.
The most solemn moment comes when the pipers lead the procession to the Memorial Tree and volunteers place each personalized ornament among the branches. One by one, the names of the fallen are given a place of honor.
But the journey does not end when the ceremony is over. Each ornament is lovingly packaged with a personalized Christmas card and prepared for shipment to your hero’s agency, where it will ultimately make its way to you.
The members of Silicon Valley FOP, Lodge 52 (svfop52.org), along with the many volunteers, students, scouts, and San Jose Police personnel who help make this tradition possible, are grateful for the opportunity to honor your loved one.
We extend our deepest condolences to you and your family, and hope that this small tribute serves as a lasting reminder that your hero has not been forgotten.
