Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

I think about my Uncle Denis often as one of the 'Few Good Men.' He visited us shortly before he returned to duty station that December and it still remains a fond childhood memory. I remember his big smile and the special gifts he gave us.

My mom and I went to the memorial in D.C. a few years ago and said a prayer to honor him.

I tell my children about him and he will never be forgotten.

April Fortune

December 2, 2022

Agent Van Patten,
On today, the 40th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country-not just as a LEO but also when you served with the U.S. Armed Forces. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

December 22, 2020

Today, I announced your name as one of the fallen officers who gave the ultimate sacrifice so that our country will always remain safe and free. The ceremony was held at the HQ building of the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Washington, DC. Peace be with you brother, and may God bless your family and loved ones. Thank you.

Deportation Officer Vicente Carlos
DHS, ICE, HQ, Enforcement & Removal Operations

May 12, 2017

Dad, I was just becoming a man when you died and I really did not get to know you as man gets to know his father. I want to acknowledge the sacrifice you took in the line of duty and how proud I am to be your son. I miss you and think about you everyday.

Michael Van Patten
Son

December 30, 2013

Agent Van Patten,
On today, the 33rd anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.i.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

December 22, 2013

Your heroism and service is honored today, the 31rst anniversary year 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 murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

I pray for the solace of all who love and miss you for I know both the pain and pride are forever.
Rest In Peace

Phyllis Loya
mom of fallen officer Larry Lasater

January 1, 2011

"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 © 1993 - All Rights Reserved
and may not be duplicated without permission

Investigator David L Bell
Richland County Sheriff's Dept., Columbia, SC

March 31, 2008

Agent VanPatten,
On today, the 28th anniversary of your death, I would like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country and to the Service. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
Anonymous

Anonymous

January 1, 2008

YOU ARE REMEMBERED TODAY AND THANK YOU SIR FOR YOUR SERVICE

VANDENBERGHE
MANCHESTER, NH

December 29, 2007

you will never be forgotten

December 19, 2007

Rest in peace

January 4, 2005