10/08/2026
The J&S Dreamland Express is named in honor of Washington State Trooper James (Jim) Saunders
Today we remember Trooper James (Jim) Saunders.
Trooper James (Jim) Saunders was born August 2, 1968, to John and Jan Saunders in Clarkston, Washington. The family moved to Leavenworth where Jim graduated from Cascade High School in 1986. Jim received an Associate of Arts degree from Wenatchee Valley College in 1988, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Sciences from Whitworth College in 1990.
Jim’s law enforcement career began on January 7, 1991, as a cadet with the Washington State Patrol, assigned to the Governor’s Mansion Security detail. Jim joined the 73rd Trooper Basic Training Class and was commissioned on December 20, 1991, assigned to Grand Coulee in Grant County.
Trooper Saunders married his loving wife Billie on June 19, 1993, at the Grand Coulee Dam. Three years later, the young couple transferred to Kennewick and started their family. The couple would become parents to a daughter, Megan, and a son, Jim Jr. Unfortunately, Jim Jr. never had the opportunity to meet his father.
Trooper Saunders died on October 7, 1999, at the age of 31, from gunshot wounds while conducting a traffic stop in Pasco. At the time of his death, Trooper Saunder had served 8-1/2 years with the Washington State Patrol.
Trooper Saunders’ wife, Billie, lives in Western Washington. Their daughter, Megan, graduated from the University of Washington and works for the Criminal Justice Training Commission as a Communications Manager. She is currently attending Gonzaga Law School. Their son, Jim Jr., graduated from the University of Washington and is the General Manager of the Landmark Crest Cinema Center. Trooper Saunders’ sister, Jennifer, lives in Spokane. His father, John, passed away in February 2023 and his mother, Jan, passed away in July 2024.
In May of 2000, Trooper Saunders was awarded the Medal of Honor, posthumously, for his actions on October 7, 1999, by the Law Enforcement – Medal of Honor Committee.
In June 2015, a dedication ceremony of the memorial to honor and remember Trooper Saunders was held at the Kennewick Office.
On June 24, 2022, a memorial garden dedication ceremony was held at the Union Gap District Office. When you visit the Union Gap District Office, take a moment to stop by the beautiful memorial that was created in remembrance of our three fallen troopers in District Three.
On October 7, 2024, a ceremony was held in Pasco to honor Trooper Saunders on the 25th anniversary of his line of duty death.
Please take a moment to remember Trooper Saunders and his family.
