Work continued around the clock in the construction of the Memorial Wall site. Photo shows workers detailing the concrete with an imprint tool and finally the granite Memorial Wall being lifted and then lowered by a crane.

The tranquility of the morning on May 10, 2001, was a perfect setting for the Memorial Wall site groundbreaking ceremony.   Family members of IDOC's fallen heroes are escorted to their seats. The agency provided transportation to the event for family members and presented them with a leather portfolio of the ceremony that honored the fallen heroes.   The IDOC Honor Guard conducts the Presentation of Colors. As part of the ceremony, Honor Guard members honorably and individually represent each fallen hero as they step forward paying homage, respect and a final tribute with the uniform gesture of a salute as each name is called.

The Union Baptist Church Choir provides background musical accompaniment singing the Battle Hymn of the Republic as the name of each fallen hero is announced.

The Laying of the Wreath acknowledges a formal expression of sympathy to each individual family member. The wreath, 30 inches in diameter, symbolically represents the 30 employees of whom IDOC honors as its fallen heroes.

A 21-Gun Salute by IDOC's Special Weapons Team follows the completion of the Laying of the Wreath. The 21-Gun Salute is one of the oldest international and most recognized ceremonies bestowing honor to be received by any individual,civilian or uniformed person.

Following the 21-Gun Salute is the Sounding of Taps, also known as the American Call. The Sounding of Taps expresses a final and confirmed salute by recognized national and state orders.   Bagpipers also accompany the Honor Guard during the ceremony.