Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Thoughts and prayers remain with Deputy Pledger's family, loved ones and the members of the Bay County Sheriff's Office. While this incident occurred in 1935, it's cirmumstances are true even today as deputies and other law enforcement are in harm's way engaging the evils of society makeing our communities safer for the unknowingly grateful. Deputy Pledger's service will not be forgotten, nor will that of all the great members of the Bay County Sheriff's Office. May God continue to watch over and protect our Florida Heroes.

Director Gary Howze
Florida Office of the Attorney General

September 9, 2021

Deputy William Pledger, I am sad that you had to give your life during this altercation. I am honored that you blazed the trail for many other officers who would come after you to serve Bay County. May they always remember you and the sacrifice you made as a Deputy. I salute you Deputy Pledger and May God Have Mercy On Your Soul.

Steve Grogan
Fmr Corporal - State of Georgia -DPS Atlanta Georgia

September 12, 2020

Rest in peace Deputy Sheriff Pledger.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

September 9, 2020

No passage of time will ever erase your service and sacrifice. Rest in peace always.

Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)

September 9, 2020

The Sheriffs of Florida and their deputies will never forget the sacrifice you and your family made to uphold our laws and protect society.

Your name has been inscribed on the Florida Sheriffs and the National Law Enforcement Memorial and in our hearts. May you forever rest in peace.

A scripture inscribed on the Florida Sheriffs Law Enforcement Memorial:

"Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they shall be called the children
of God." Matthew 5:9

Executive Director Steve Casey
Florida Sheriffs Association

August 27, 2016

IN HONORE CASORUM
Gone, but not forgotten.

Sgt. T. J. Jones
Greater Cleveland Transit Poice Department, Ohio

September 9, 2013

To fully appreciate the heroes of the present, we must recognize our heroes of the past. Your heroism and service is honored today, the 78th anniversary year of your death. I am priviliged to be among the first to leave a tribute to you. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer who was murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered. Rest In Peace.

Phyllis Lasater Loya
mom of fallen Pittsburg (CA) officer Larry Lasater

May 2, 2013

HEROES live forever, and you sir are a hero. Continue to rest in peace Deputy Pledger.

Deb Azure
Mother of Deputy Renee Danell Azure
EOW 08/06/02
Union County SO, Lake Butler, FL

September 9, 2012

Rest in Peace, Deputy Pledger. Your sacrifice is not forgotten.

Officer 11169

February 5, 2012

No matter how long it has been, you sir will never be forgotten. Continue to rest in peace Deputy Pledger. HEROES live forever, and you sir are a hero.

Deb Azure
Mother of Deputy Renee Danell Azure
EOW 08/06/02
Union County SO, Lake Butler, FL

Deb

September 9, 2011

Rest in peace "Brother", you served well.

James Vaughan
Panama City Beach Police Dept.

August 25, 2008

The policeman stood and faced God,
Which must 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 a badge
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 the bills got just too steep.

And I never passed a cry for help,
Though at time I shook with fear.
And sometimes, God forgive me,
I've wept unmanly tears.

I know I don't deserve a place
Among the people here.
They never wanted me around
Except to calm their fear.

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 a silence all around the throne
Where the saints had often trod.
As the policeman waited quietly,
For the judgement of his god.

"Step forward now, policeman,
You've born your burdens well.
Come walk a beat on Heaven's streets,
You've done your time in hell"

Rest in Peace

June 22, 2005

Rest in peace. Your bravery will not be forgotten.

Ofc. Michael Walker
Tallahassee Police Dept.

September 9, 2003