Kentucky State Police, Kentucky
End of Watch Thursday, April 26, 1973
Reflections for Lieutenant William Carter Smith
Lt. Smith,
On today, the 50th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just as a Law Enforcement Officer but for our Country as well when you served with the U.S. Army during World War II. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.
R.I.P.
USBP
Anonymous
United States Border Patrol
April 26, 2023
Rest in peace Lt. Smith.
Rabbi Lewis S. Davis
November 28, 2019
I have the honor to know and respect Lt. Smiths son, Tommy Smith.
Tommy Smith was my Sergeant when I joined the State Police. He was a man to look up to, and I went to to him for guidance and direction.
I remember Sgt. Smith saying to me, “son, if you don’t ever get complained on, you’re not doing your job.”
While that is funny, i received many complaints on me, and after so many, Tommy said, “ok, that’s enough.”
Tommy, you have been through a lot in your career, and I just want to say thank you for paving the way, just like your dad did!!
I hope us young Troopers have made your family proud!! You have proven yourself and I’m honored to call you my friend!!
Chad
TFC Chad Smith
KSP
November 14, 2018
I am privileged to pay tribute to you. Your heroism and service is honored today, the 39th anniversary of your death. 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. I am sure you are proud that your son continued your legacy of protecting and serving.
Rest In Peace
Phyllis Loya
Mom of fallen California Officer Larry Lasater, Pittsburg PD, eow 4/24/05
April 26, 2012
Lt. Smith,
On today, the 35th anniversary of your murder, I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of the state of Kentucky. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.
R.I.P.
Anonymous
Anonymous
April 26, 2008
"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
October 29, 2007
God bless you William. The Father has created a place for heroes such as you.
Matthew 5:9
An Ohio brother
Montgomery Co. Ohio
September 6, 2007
It is the men like you who made this agency what it is today. Thank you for paving the way for us. I know you are proud of you son and what he stands for. He is a great mentor to us younger Troopers. God bless the Smith Family.
Trooper Jonathan McChesney
Kentucky State Police
December 24, 2006
Sir,
I never hade the honor of knowing you but I have known your son for a number of years now. As you know, he is a fine man and a very respected sergeant within the thin grey line. I am sure you are proud. I'll see you on the other side.
Rest in peace brother.
U/116 BGPD
November 6, 2006
Thank you for your service Lt. Smith. Continue to watch over your son who has followed in your foot steps.
Officer
January 24, 2006
Your sacrafice will not be forgotten...KSP Class 79
kentucky State Police
May 26, 2004
Never shall we forget.
Godspeed Gray Angel!
Anonymous
God bless you both. Please accept the thanks of a grateful state.
Anonymous
To my father: Thank you for being my hero
Trooper William T. Smith
Kentucky State Police
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