Deputy Sheriff James Eugene Stoltenow

The Last Call

Waiting for the pipers to make their final notes
Amazing Grace, How Sweet the Sound

The six, folded and tucked Old Glory
Passing the flag down the line, one by one
Handing the flag over to his family, with these simple words
“You, Have Our Deepest Sympathy”

The seven waited for the commands, 3 rounds each
Puffs of smoke drifted towards the heavens
Giving way to the Chilling sounds of Taps
Each note heard twice, between tears of sadness

The last call came “DETAIL DISMISSED”
Family and friends, placed roses on his casket
Leaving a part of their heart and soul
Slowly, the lines, of officers drifted away

Each one, leaving with a thought, it could have been me
One by one they gave his wife a hug
They offered two promises, we will never forget
And whatever we can do for you and your family

Weeks turned into months, months turned into years
Soon the only memory left of 532
Is a picture hanging on a wall with a date 01/27/1987
And a name on Panel 41, W – 10 in Judiciary Square

Time will not heal this wound for our group of 25
That afternoon, in January will never be far from our heart
Nor will the day we said goodbye to our friend
We will always remember THE LAST CALL.

oliver

Mike Erickson
Co-worker

May 10, 2021