Deputy Sheriff Oscar Clarence Hill IV Harris County Sheriff's Department Texas Saturday, July 22, 2000  Leave a Reflection  Return to Memorial  Print This Page  Continue Building Book  Page: 1 of 22 of 2

I am beside myself. Me and Oscar shared a lot of good and bad and times together. Times that I could never forget. Oscar and I served together for about 3-1/2 years in Charlie Co., 1st LAR Battalion. We were Scouts in an LAV platoon, roomates in our barracks after float, roomates in a shack of a place in Huntington Beach while we were moonlighting as Bouncers at Kokomos night club. I always said to myself that of all the people I knew from the Marines Oscar would be the one that I would drop everything for if he needed help because he was so genuine. He touched so many people in good ways with his larger than life attitude and a laugh that would always make me chuckle. He was a true goofball that just made any situation better. If I was overexcited and stressed he was calm and cool, If I was down he was happy and laughable. He knew how to make me feel better. One thing I remember about Oscar that always makes me laugh is when we were doing our workup for our overseas deployment (float) we had a platoon commander that seemed to enjoy taking the platoon on P.T. runs that people like me and Oscar had no chance of keeping up with. Me and Oscar werent built for running but put a pack on our backs and that platoon commander would have cried with the amount of weight we could carry. We were in good shape but just werent as fast as that guy. Oscar would yell from the back of the pack "Why do I need to run when I can just stand up and fight!! I joined the marines cause I wanted to kick some butt". Oscar spoke his mind and stood tall. He was the Marine in the platoon that I could guarantee would not leave a man behind. It made me feel good to have a guy like him on my side. The list of stories I could tell about Oscar goes on and on. He was just one of those guys that left a permanent impression on anyone who came in contact with him. There was no doubt in my mind that Oscar would serve in Law enforcement. I can remember Oscar wore a memorial bracelet for Constable Darrell Edward Lunsford Sr. who was also killed in the line of duty. It was in his blood to serve and he will always be a true Hero. RIP Oscar!! OOOORah!!

Todd Burger
Friend/USMC/
2009-09-03

Today is August 26, 2009, I just heard about Oscar's passing from my son Mike who just found out today. I remember Oscar very well but only met him a few times. Oscar and my son started Boot Camp together in the United States Marine Corps and finished together four years later. Oscar Hill was a name I heard alot from my son along with Otto, Reeves and Kane. I remember Oscar visiting our home in Arizona, he was so polite and sweet!!! A big boy!!! Mike use to refer to him as the "Good Ole Boy from Texas"!!! Oscar pursued his dream of Law Enforcement and Mike pursued his dream of becoming a Firefighter. They both achievied their goals!!! I feel very blessed to have met Oscar. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. Wether you knew Oscar his whole life or just met him a few times because he was your sons Marine Corps buddie, he made a lasting impression. Oscar Hill made a difference!!!! God Bless.

Jeannie Bradfield
USMC MOM
2009-08-26

I'm sitting in front of my computer with tears falling down my face. I will never forget Oscar Hill IV. On August 3, 1992 I met Oscar at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego. He was by far the biggest in our platoon if not our company. Oscar was motivated, our first night at boot camp the DI stopped oscar from doing sit ups in his rack after taps. Oscar was intense and everything he did was intense. After graduating from platoon 3058 Kilo Co. we stayed together through Marine Combat Training, School of Infantry and on to 1st LAR Charlie Co. were we became LAV scouts together. Oscar was my SAW gunner, he was a beast with a never say die attitude and commitment to be the best. On the outside Oscar was this huge lovable, sometimes gullible larger than life character. On the inside Oscar was an intelligent caring and loyal brother. I tell stories about Oscar folding a heavy bag in half with one kick and go right into telling a story about catching him dancing in front of the mirror to tainted love. Once while on patrol on our scout team came across an angry rattle snake, making every attempt to avoid being bitten we side stepped the snake by at least ten feet. Oscar was behind me and before I could turn around he had the snake dead around his neck with his big Texas grin. I have more stories about Oscar Hill IV than anyone I ever served with in the Marine Corps and that should let you know the impression he had on me. I have photos of oscar while in the Marine corps on Facebook under the 1st LAR group and if anyone has questions feel free to contact me at mikesoneill@yahoo.com. I will miss Oscar Hill, Semper Fi! God speed Oscar!

Firefighter Michael O'Neill
Brother/Friend USMC/Glendale Fire Dept.
2009-08-26

Someone asked me today how long it take's to get from Houston to Dallas... All I could do is laugh anyone reading this , the answer is 2 1/2 hours atleast to Ennis...

Stephen Williams
Friend
2009-01-29

wow. I am just now hearing of your passing almost 9 years later and the only thing that I could think of is why it took so long to hear such tragic news...I truly am speechless. you're friendship was cherished in high school and you are very much missed!

mary

Mary Clark
FRIEND
2009-01-18

Oscar worked in IPC and we would often joke around about being related when I brought in arrestees. Oscar was a big strong guy and what I always pictured as a typical Marine specimen but he was always smiling and happy. I was shocked when I heard Oscar had been injured but I thought sure he would pull through on shear strength. It was a very sad day when I found he had lost the battle. We lost Barry Hill later that year and having lost two Hill boys in the same year made me consider my mortality and subsequently played into my decision to retire at my first opportunity in 2003. Oscar had told me shortly before his death that he was considering going back into the Marines, but obviously God had another duty assignment for him. Rest in Peace brother and Semper Fi.

Detective John R. Hill (Retired)

2008-12-02

Hello Oscar,

I started looking up my old Marine Corps friends. You came to mind after being room mates at 1st Reconnaissance Battalion Charlie Company. I am in complete disbelief to see what I found. I remember your plan to return home to Texas to fight crime. I bet you were a great Officer for your very short time. You were a great guy and too much fun. I used to taxi you to Huntington Beach so you could visit your girl friend. The night club to hang out while you would work some nights. I'm still amazed to find your no longer around. You will be remembered and in my prayers. I wish I looked you up earlier than some years later to find such bad news. God Bless You! srey1011@yahoo.com

Scott Reynolds
USMC
2008-09-28

I miss you so very much and still think about you everyday.
Brooke Mininni

Brooke Mininni

2008-06-12

"The Badge"

He starts his shift each day
To respond to calls unknown.
He drives a marked patrol car.
A police officer he is known.

He's paid by the citizens' taxes
To make it safe on the streets.
But he usually has a second job
'Cause a waitress has his salary beat.

Now he doesn't know a holiday
'Cause he works all year round.
And when Thanksgiving and Christmas finally arrive
At his home he cannot be found.

He's cursed and assaulted often,
The one whos blood runs blue.
He seldom ever gets a thanks,
To some he's just a fool.

His friends are always other cops
'Cause people just don't understand
That underneath his badge and gun,
He's just another man.

He knows there might not be a tomorrow
In this world of drugs and crime.
And he gets so mad at the court system
'Cause the crooks don't get any time.

And each day when he leaves for work,
He prays to God above.
Please bring me home after my shift
So I can see the ones I love.

But tonight he stops a speeding car,
He's alone down this ole' highway.
It's just a little traffic infraction.
He does it everyday.

Well, he walks up to the driver's window,
And his badge is shining bright.
He asked the guy for a driver's license,
When a shot rang through the night.

Yes, the bullet hit its mark,
Striking the officer in the chest.
But the Department's budget didn't buy
Each officer a bullet-proof vest.

So he lay on the ground bleeding.
His blood wasn't blue - His blood was red.
And briefly he thought of his loved ones
'Cause in a moment the officer was dead.

In the news they told the story
Of how this officer had died.
And some who listened cared less,
But those who loved him cried.

Well, they buried him in uniform
With his badge pinned on his chest.
He even had his revolver,
He died doing his best.

Written By:
David L. Bell
Sergeant
Richland County Sheriff's Department
Columbia, South Carolina
Used with Special Permission of the Author
Copyright © 1999 - All Rights Reserved
and may not be duplicated without permission

Investigator David L Bell
Richland County Sheriff's Dept., Columbia, SC
2008-02-07

Hey brother.. I miss you..

Dave Angstadt

2008-01-29

Oscar, I never knew you, but I've heard about you for years. You were one of my brother's best friends in the Marines. It's been so long, but I wanted you to know that my nephew is now almost three months old! Your memory lives on in Oscar James Thorpe. Hoo rah.

Tracy

2007-11-04

7 years, its been a very different life without you, I think your passing changed us all. I dont think I have let a day pass without a thought of you or a laugh or a tear. I really dunno what to say other than thank you for almost 20 years of friendship and those who never really got to know you will never know what true friendship is. How many people would pawn everything they own, drive 24 hours straight from California to Texas, just so he can be the bestman in your wedding.
"Life is a party you gotta enjoy it while your here, ya never know when the merry go round may stop" Oscar Hill IV, your ride was cut way to short. As Philly says "I think what I miss the most is his laugh and hearing his voice" I think we all do. Who would have thought or known that you would have had such the affect you did on so many lives.

Stephen Williams

2007-10-18

It's been 7 years buddy and I think of you often. Working that side job with you at Sam's Boat and just laughing at how funny you were. I remember it like it was yesterday. I left HPD a short time later to return to PA but your still very close to my heart. God Bless You Oscar

OFC David Pine
Penn Hills, PA /old friend and co-worker
2007-09-06

The policeman stood and faced his God, which must have always come to pass.
He hoped his shoes were shining just as brightly as his brass.
"Step forward now, policeman. How shall I deal with you? Have you always turned the other cheek? To my church have you been true?"
The policeman squared his shoulders and said, "No, Lord, I guess I ain't, Because those of us who carry badges can't always be a saint."
"I've had to work most Sundays, and at times my talk was rough, and sometimes I've been violent because the streets are awfully tough."
"But I never took a penny that wasn't mine to keep... Though I worked a lot of overtime when bills got just too steep."
"And I never passed a cry for help, though at times I shook with fear. And sometimes, God forgive me, I've wept unmanly tears."
"If you've a place for me here, Lord, it needn't be so grand. I never expected or had too much, but if you don't... I'll understand."
There was silence all around the throne where the saints had often trod, as the policeman waited quietly for the judgment of his God.
"Step forward now policeman. You've borne your burdens well. Come walk a beat on Heaven's street. You've done your time in hell."

--author unknown--

2007-04-11

It has been over 6 years since your end of watch and I know that there are many broken hearts left behind that think of you every day. You will never be forgotten by them nor will the Blue Family ever let you be forgotten. Keep watch over your loved ones and those still on patrol. You are a true hero and heroes never die. I am retired from law enforcement now, but with retirement came the loss of my youngest son, a police officer who followed in my footsteps, was killed in the line of duty. People ask me, why become a police officer as you won't get rich with what they pay you and for what they expect you to do for it. My answer is always, it comes from the heart and I know Oscar had the heart. He is a true hero.

Bob Gordon, father of fallen Chicago Officer
Michael P. Gordon, EOW: 8/8/04

Bob Gordon, Gold Star Father

2006-09-22

On this the 6th Anniversary of you leaving for a better place, I wish to say thank you for your service to the great state of Texas. Deputy Hill you are a hero not only to the community you served but most importantly to your family and friends. Rest well brother.

Border Patrol Agent
United States Border Patrol
2006-07-22

Well brother, as of June 30, 2005 you are an uncle to a beautiful baby boy. He will no doubt be a football player with his size and strength. He knows your face as well as mine from your pictures. You would be proud of him, and it breaks my heart you are not here to meet him.
Jodi

2005-12-30

Dear Brother,
You gave your life doing what you loved best. No one knows why we chose this job, knowing that we could be a target at any time. Only those of us who have served really know.
We did it to make this country we live in, the best and safest in the whole world. Your family honored one of our fallen Brothers, Officer Dennis McNamara, Upper Darby Twp. Pennsylvania EOW Jan,2000, and I thank them for it. Your Family, and fellow Brothers, can be proud of you.
The Blue we wear, reflects the sky, where Our Almighty Boss is, and one day we will all meet. Till then Brother, watch over the rest of our Brothers & Sisters. My deepest sympathy to your family for your ultimate sacrifice.
Rest in Peace...

Ptl. William Johnson #52 Retired
Upper Darby Twp. Pennsylvania
2004-11-26

Rest in Peace and God Bless you brother
Your sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Deputy Constable LC Downing
Wharton County Texas Pct 2
2003-09-01

Rest in peace blue angel. God bless the family and friends of this fallen hero.

S. Yates

I sat down today going through some photographs we had taken when you and Barry were in the academy. I laughed and remembered your sweet smile and how much you and Barry would cut up. I thought somehow somewhere you two had to be related because of your goofy sense of humor. Oscar, thank you for being a part of Barry's life and for touching ours. I'm so sorry you had to leave us. Barry was so torn up over your death. He wore a memorial bracelet with your name on it very proudly. He was so proud of you and I know he was honored to be your brother.
It is easy to visit you at the cemetary since you are both so close together. Never would I have ever dreamt that I would be visiting the cemetary for either of you.

I miss you and promise to never forget you.
Cathy Hill

I never had the opportunity to meet Deputy Sheriff Ocsar Hill. I do know that loosing a law enforcement officer is like loosing a family member. I lost a close friend that was a police officer in Des Moines, Iowa after a motorcycle accident that left him paralyzed from the neck down. Office Pat Moody. I had seen him the week before his death and he looked great, but tragically it was the last time I would see him because he entered the hospital with an internal infections and never regained consciousness. I am hoping that we all realized that all law enforcement officers are the communities family as well.

God Bless Deputy Hill and may he have eternal happiness in heaven.

Tonya M. Stephenson
Seaford, Delaware, USA

Tonya M. Stephenson
Law Enforcment History

Oscar-
I had a dream last night that you were here just hanging out with me- I didn't want to wake up. You were and still are the best big brother there ever was. I am so very proud to say that you are my brother; you have always been my hero. I miss you so much. How I wish you were still here with me. I love you.

Randi

I met Oscar when he was just a skinny little waif on the football team at DeSoto High. I gave him a ride home from practice one afternoon and he invited me in to hang out for a while. I barely knew the guy, but I went in anyway, and it was one of the best decisions I ever made. We became the best of friends and even though I was always the withdrawn, quiet guy in the background, Oscar always knew how to loosen me up. I can't count the number of people I met and befriended because of Oscar. He just had a way with people. Almost everything was a laugh to him.

In the years that passed, we did a lot together. Football, of course, but we got into karate together, made an unforgettable trip to South Padre for Sprink Break one year with nothing but my parents Mobil card and about 40 bucks between us (most of which went to gas, because wouldn't you know it, there wasn't a Mobil station within 200 miles of the Island). We slept in my car on the beach, showered at a local campsite, and spent the rest of our time either at Louie's Back Yard or Charlie's, the two best bars down there at the time.

What I remember most about Oscar was how focused he was on where he was going. If you asked him what he was going to do after school, there was not even a pause for thought - "I'm joining the Marines - Ooorah!" He seemed to be in such a big hurry to accomplish his goals, and looking back, maybe a part of him knew what was coming and he wanted to have everything done. He even had me ready to join up when he came back from boot and was working in the recruiting office. If I hadn't chosen that time to run my car into the back of an 18-wheeler, I wonder how things might have turned out. We kept in touch sporadically after he joined the Corps. I've never been good at communicating, even with my own family, so I guess part of that falls on me, but we were both busy. Me with college, him with the military. Every time I talked to him, he had some cool story to tell me - about his latest float, about his escapades as a bouncer in his off time, whatever.

Finally, Oscar came back to Texas. And not just Texas, but Houston, just a few minutes drive from Conroe, where I live. Now he was getting on with the next phase of his life he had planned out - to be a cop. For a time, we kept in touch regularly, went out to clubs to hunt women, went to a gun show...Then I met a woman. As things tend to go, I started spending less time with Oscar and more time with Marianne. I don't blame her for us not staying in touch - just one of my idiosynchrasies - I'm not a keep-in-touch kind of guy. But I can't even begin to express how much I regret not staying in touch with him now. Too little, too late.

Today, I was packing...getting ready to move. I came across some pictures of me and Oscar at a karate tournament in Dallas years ago. I had a fierce desire to call up my old friend and meet him somewhere for a couple of beers and chew over old times. It hit me again, in a way it hadn't since I helped carry his casket from the church, that I would never get that chance again.

Sitting here, at 3:00am, unable to sleep because of old memories, I look back at the past decade or so that I knew Oscar. I look at what he did with that decade - military, his life in california, deputy - and I look at what I did with it - dropped out of college, no direction, too many jobs to list, drugs... I realize that Oscar is the man that I wish I had grown up to be. Even though I was the older of us, I always looked up to him. He was always the center of attention, the life of every party, the best friend you could ever want, always willing to help you however he could. I would give anything to have been able to trade places with you in that hospital bed, bro. Why couldn't it have been me, a person that has contributed nothing to the world in the past ten years?

God bless you, Bro.
I hope when next we meet, I have lived the rest of my life up to your standards.

Jes Hall

Deputy Hill, your watch is over and our department salutes you and your tour. May you watch over the gates of heaven, as you watched over the citizens of Harris County, Texas.

Deputy J. Allen
Hidalgo County Sheriff's Department, Texas