First 6 months of 2025
Progress Update: Advancing the Minnesota EMS Memorial
July 2025
The MN State EMS Line of Duty Death (LODD) Memorial Foundation continues to make steady progress toward establishing a permanent memorial honoring Minnesota’s fallen EMS professionals. Over the past five months, we’ve achieved key milestones that bring us closer to ensuring emergency medical responders receive lasting recognition on the grounds of the Minnesota State Capitol.
Project Highlights – February through July 2025
1. Capitol Grounds Approval Advancing
In March, our memorial application was officially accepted by the Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board (CAAPB), placing us alongside Minnesota’s existing police and fire memorials. A formal public hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, July 16, where we hope to receive final design approval and continue advancing through the state's oversight process.
2. Fundraising Milestone Surpassed
Through grassroots contributions, union support, and independent donors, we have now raised over $13,000. These funds have supported application fees, outreach efforts, initial design consultation, and public awareness campaigns. We are actively pursuing additional grant funding to support construction.
3. Increased Statewide Visibility
The memorial initiative received statewide attention following a KSTP-TV feature, as well as published articles on MNEMS.org and JEMS.com. These platforms have helped spotlight the longstanding absence of an EMS-specific memorial on Capitol grounds and have amplified our message to the public and policymakers alike.
4. Public Testimony and Community Support
During the CAAPB’s comment period, EMS professionals, families, and community members submitted written testimony and letters of support from across Minnesota. This groundswell of public input reflects the deeply held belief that EMS professionals deserve the same recognition as their law enforcement and fire service peers.
5. Strategic Grant and Partner Outreach
In recent months, the Foundation has submitted several targeted grant applications and initiated new partnerships with corporate sponsors, philanthropic foundations, and tribal governments. These efforts are part of a comprehensive strategy to ensure long-term sustainability for both the construction and maintenance of the memorial.
What’s Next
Public Hearing: Wednesday, July 16 at 2:00 p.m. at the State Capitol (with virtual option available)
Design Phase: Pending CAAPB approval, final architectural planning will begin
Continued Fundraising: New grant rounds, individual donor campaigns, and sponsorship programs are in development
We are grateful to the EMS community and supporters statewide for their continued commitment to this important cause. Together, we are building more than a monument—we are building a legacy of service, sacrifice, and recognition.
For updates, ways to get involved, or to donate, visit:
www.mnemsmemorial.com
MN State EMS LODD Memorial Foundation
“Honoring the Sacrifice. Supporting the Legacy.”
