Troopers' monument planned for Highway Patrol grounds

The Missouri State Troopers Association (MSTA) recently announced its intent to construct a monument outside of the Missouri Highway Patrol's general headquarters in Jefferson City.

"It is about time we constructed a monument to reflect on our fallen officers and officers past, present and future who risk their lives on a daily basis," Ken Sears, executive director of the MSTA, said in a news release. "We need to provide a place of reverence for them, their families and the general public."

The monument will display three troopers mounted on a pedestal. The entire structure will be approximately 13 feet tall.

The monument will be on display for the general public to view on the grounds of the Patrol's general headquarters at 1510 E. Elm St.

Sears said negotiations for approval are still being made, but once they are finalized, he hopes to begin construction by the end of the summer.

The project is estimated to cost $500,000-$700,000 and will be funded through the Missouri Trooper Fund, an account set up by the MSTA.

The association has secured Barbara Mungenast, a nationally acclaimed sculptress, to complete the project.

More information about the project, including how to contribute to its funding, is available at missouritrooperfund.org.