March 2, 2022
Ridgefield, WA – March 2, 2022 marks the 35th anniversary of the line of duty death of Trooper James Gain. Trooper Gain died on March 2, 1987, at the age of 42 when he was struck by a semi-truck along Interstate 5, seven miles north of Vancouver, while conducting a traffic stop. At the time of his death, Trooper Gain had served 19 years with the Washington State Patrol. Troopers, WSP employees, and WSP retirees from the area took a moment to remember Trooper Gain by placing flowers and taking a moment of silence at his grave.
The Washington State Legislature passed Senate Resolution 1987-8620 honoring Trooper Gain for his sacrifice. He was also posthumously awarded the Washington Law Enforcement Medal of Honor in May 1997.
On March 6, 2009, a memorial was unveiled at the southbound Gee Creek rest area on Interstate 5 at mile post 11, to honor and remember Trooper Gain. The Washington State Patrol asks all citizens to take a moment to remember Trooper Gain today as we honor the 35th anniversary of his death.
The Washington State Patrol Memorial Foundation was created in 1982 to help preserve the memory of WSP fallen officers. They also provide assistance to active and retired WSP employees and their families during times of need. Support of this foundation is provided through private donations. If you would like to learn more about the 32 fallen officers or make a donation, please visit www.wspmf.org.
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