Today, Sheriff Joseph Roybal and members of the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office joined the El Paso County Board of County Commissioners and members of the community for a special ceremony recognizing the Pikes Peak Honor Bell, which will serve to honor and remember veterans throughout the Pikes Peak region.
El Paso County has been home to approximately 95,000 veterans and their families. Some have served—or continue to serve—as members of the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office in sworn, professional, and volunteer roles. This ceremony reflects our community’s deep commitment to preserving the legacy of those who have worn the uniform and protected our nation.
The event featured remarks from elected officials, representatives from the Honor Bell Foundation, and community members, followed by the tolling of the Pikes Peak Honor Bell to honor our fallen heroes.
During the ceremony, El Paso County Undersheriff Jeff Kramer joined Commissioner Bill Wysong, 4th Judicial District Attorney Michael Allen, El Paso County Clerk and Recorder Steve Schleiker, Jack Ladley (Executive Director, EPC Public Works), Vernon Stewart (Executive Director, EPC Community Resources), and Sara Metz (Senior Paralegal, EPC County Attorney’s Office)—all veterans of the United States Armed Services—to toll the bell in memory of those who served our great nation and made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms.
Undersheriff Kramer paid tribute to the men and women who have served in both the U.S. Military and the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office with his tolling of the bell.
He stated:
“Tolling this bell is an extraordinary honor. When we think of the generations of veterans who have defended our nation—and those who now continue their service within our Office—we are reminded of the values they embody: courage, sacrifice, and devotion to others.
“The Pikes Peak Honor Bell will stand as a lasting symbol of gratitude from this community. It ensures the memory of our fallen heroes endures and underscores our promise to honor their service. I am humbled to participate in this moment and proud of every veteran who calls El Paso County home.”
The Honor Bell Foundation is a Colorado-based nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring every veteran receives dignified final honors and recognition. This event marked the debut of the brand-new Pikes Peak Honor Bell, which will serve at Pikes Peak National Cemetery, the U.S. Air Force Academy Cemetery, and throughout El Paso County for honor and remembrance ceremonies and veteran events.
