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Honoring Our Fallen: Engraving Ceremonies for Troopers Corey Thompsen and Clay Carns

  • Writer: ISPHF
    ISPHF
  • Jun 30
  • 2 min read
Honor guard in green uniforms and hats march with flags at a memorial, surrounded by colorful banners. Emotion is solemn and respectful.

This June, the Illinois State Police Heritage Foundation had the solemn honor of adding two more names to the Illinois State Police Memorial Park Wall—names that now stand etched in granite as a lasting tribute to two courageous troopers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.


Marble wall engraved with "Trooper Corey S. Thompsen," "Special Operations Group," "EOW: October 18, 2024," reflecting somber mood.

Trooper Corey Thompsen

Trooper Thompsen was tragically killed on April 2, 2024, in a motorcycle crash in Champaign County while serving the people of Illinois with dedication and pride. A five-year veteran of the Illinois State Police, Trooper Thompsen was known for his integrity, his service to others, and his unwavering commitment to public safety. He is survived by his wife and parents, who stood bravely as his name was engraved into the Memorial Wall this month, ensuring his memory will forever be a part of our collective history.


Reflective memorial wall with text: Trooper Clay M. Carns, Troop 3, EOW: December 23, 2024. Shadow of a figure in the background.

Trooper Clay Carns

Trooper Carns was struck and killed on December 23, 2023, while removing debris from I-55 near Channahon, Illinois. An 11-year veteran, Trooper Carns embodied the spirit of selfless service, always willing to go above and beyond to keep our roadways safe. He is survived by his wife, two children, and parents. His name was engraved on the Memorial Wall just days after the observance of Scott’s Law Day—an annual reminder of the importance of protecting those who protect us.


Trooper in green uniform and hat standing solemnly by a memorial wall. Illinois State Police banner overhead. Names engraved on granite.

Each engraving ceremony is deeply personal, yet profoundly unifying. As the names of Troopers Thompsen and Carns were inscribed onto the Memorial Wall, fellow troopers, family members, and community leaders gathered in reverent silence, reflecting on the lives lived and legacies left behind.


At the Illinois State Police Heritage Foundation, our mission through Memorial Park is to preserve the memory of these heroes—not only for those who knew them personally but for future generations who may visit and learn what true sacrifice looks like.


Their names now rest among those who gave their lives in service to the people of Illinois. May we never forget the price they paid and the families who continue to carry their memory forward.


To learn more about Memorial Park or to support our ongoing efforts to honor fallen officers, please visit www.isphf.org/memorial-park.

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