California Highway Patrol Officer Nathan Taylor was known for his generosity and kindness to friends, his family of three young sons and wife, and complete strangers until the moment he was killed. Nathan was investigating a crash and directing traffic outside of his patrol vehicle when he was struck by a car who had lost control in the snowy conditions. He was rushed to the hospital where he passed away. 

Following his death, stories of him going above and beyond in his community came to light. His End of Watch may have been on March 13, 2016, but his compassion will carry on through these stories and countless others.

Officer Lesley Zerebny and Officer Gil Vega shared an unparalleled dedication to their profession and families until they were murdered in the line of duty. They had responded to a call that an adult son was violent with his parents when they were ambushed, shot, and killed.

Lesley had returned from maternity leave after having a baby whom she expected to watch grow up while she advanced her career. Gil had put in for retirement as a 35-year police veteran to spend more time with his eight children and over 100 extended family members. Their End of Watch was October 8, 2016, but they are remembered by their families and Palm Springs community through the dedication of part of Highway 111.

Deputy Kevin Blount and Deputy Joseph Kievernagel died doing what they loved most - flying their Sheriff’s Department helicopter together. That summer night, they were flying over a recreation area when the helicopter went down due to catastrophic engine failure. They excelled at their jobs until the end, and landed the helicopter safely away from the crowds of people.

Known as Batman and Robin, the pair was highly regarded for their professionalism and expertise. Deputies Kievernagel and Blount both received the Purple Heart award posthumously. Their role as the "eyes in the sky” ended on July 13, 2005, but their memories continue on as “heroes in the sky.”

Deputy John P. Monego of the Alameda County Sheriff’s Department was ambushed and ruthlessly killed in a takeover robbery. Another officer has been taken hostage inside a restaurant alongside 30 other people. Monego arrived at the site shortly behind the officer, not knowing she had been overpowered. He was shot at least six times and pronounced dead at Eden Hospital. 

John Monego was known as a role model and motivated his fellow officers to be their best. Most importantly, he loved sharing stories about his baby son and California Highway Patrol officer wife. His End of Watch was December 12, 1998, but his memory lives on in his family and the lives he saved that day.

Officer Jon S. Coutchie was tragically killed in a collision while responding to a call of a speeding motorist who had evaded another officer. Honoring his dedication to public service as both an Army Ranger and Laguna Beach Police Officer, a responding officer draped an American flag over Jon's body. 

Fellow LBPD Officers remarked how they (and their families) always felt safer when partnering with Jon because he would always cover their backs. Jon was known for living his life with enthusiasm, a great sense of humor that put others at ease, and compassion for all those he encountered. His End of Watch was September 21, 2013, but his service to his country and community will not be forgotten.