• Posted: December 22, 2025
• Aldridge Electric, better careers, better communities, better construction, Community Building, Electrical construction chicago projects, Electrical construction safety practices, Electrical contractors association chicago members, IBEW Local 134, IBEW Local 134 electricians, Safety, Skilled electrical labor chicago, Union Electricians Chicago Community

 

Each December, families gather at Gold Star Families Memorial and Park to honor the lives of Chicago police officers who made the ultimate sacrifice. The annual lighting of the Gold Star Family Christmas Tree is a powerful tradition—one that offers comfort, connection, and a reminder that these officers’ service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

This year, Powering Chicago member contractor Aldridge Electric continued its longstanding commitment to community service by partnering with the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation to illuminate the tree and the surrounding evergreens, bringing light to families during a season that can be especially difficult.

As one of the region’s most respected electrical construction firms in Chicago, Aldridge Electric approached this project with the precision, care, and respect that the moment demands.

Bringing Light, Comfort, and Connection to Families

Aldridge Electric, and a team of highly skilled IBEW Local 134 electricians installed blue and white LED lights across three evergreen trees surrounding the memorial. Their work began long before the switch was flipped—preparing the grounds, staging equipment, coordinating logistics, and implementing strict electrical construction safety practices.

Every step was performed with technical rigor, from rigging equipment to setting up a safe power distribution system, ensuring the installation would withstand winter conditions and remain reliable throughout the holiday season.

A Partnership Built on Service and Community

The Chicago Police Memorial Foundation provides year-round support for the families of officers killed or catastrophically injured in the line of duty. Their work includes:

• Financial assistance
• Counseling and emotional support
• Youth programs
• Opportunities for families to remain connected to one another

The Gold Star Family Christmas Tree is one of the many ways the Foundation honors the memory of those who served while creating a space where families can gather in unity and healing.

Aldridge Electric’s involvement reflects a broader commitment shared across Powering Chicago’s network of signatory contractors—professionals who not only lead complex electrical construction projects in Chicago but also invest in the communities they are proud to serve.

By partnering with the Foundation, Aldridge Electric continues a tradition rooted in service, craftsmanship, and support for Chicago’s families and neighborhoods.

Delivering Skilled Work for a Meaningful Tradition

Supporting the Gold Star Family Christmas Tree requires a team capable of delivering precise, reliable electrical work while honoring the tradition’s significance. Aldridge Electric’s IBEW Local 134 electricians brought the technical skill, preparation, and safety practices needed to ensure the installation performs throughout the season. Their work reinforces the value of partnering with Powering Chicago signatory contractors—professionals equipped to manage complex electrical construction needs while also contributing to the communities they serve. The illuminated trees offer families a moment of reflection and stand as a reminder of the lives, service, and sacrifices they honor.

To support the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation’s mission or plan a visit to the Gold Star Families Memorial and Park, visit the Foundation’s website. To learn more about the contractors and electricians delivering safe, reliable electrical work across Chicago and Cook County, explore the Powering Chicago Find a Contractor Tool.