Detroit Police Department, Michigan
End of Watch Sunday, July 20, 1986
Reflections for Police Officer Anthony C. Williams
Anthony and I attended Joyce Elementary School on Detroit’s east side. I think in the 4th maybe 5th grade we put together a booklet of photographs and articles for a class project. Our names are stenciled on the booklet cover page. I still have it to this day.
After elementary school my family moved to the west side. In 1985, after becoming a Detroit firefighter, I received a phone call from Anthony. Granted we hadn’t talk to each other since elementary school. He called to congratulate me on joining the fire department. He welcomed me to the public safety family. He informed me that he was a Detroit police officer for about 6 years.
We had a good long laugh, reminiscing. We both couldn’t believe that we ended up on the same team. I told him that I was very proud of him. I was especially proud that at such a young age of 21, he made the commitment to become a Detroit police officer. We planned to get together but we didn’t have the opportunity to do so.
While on duty at the firehouse, the news of a Detroit police officer being shot was reported. I was devastated to learn that the officer was my friend Anthony Williams.
It was tough that day on duty, knowing that my friend was gone. But at the same time not able to accept it and understand why it had to happen.
For the next 25years with the Detroit fire department I worked as a firefighter, inspector, arson investigator and administrator. During my public safety career and even now in my post career life, I often remember Anthony. He was and is an inspiration. He was a great man. I picked up on his sense of caring and love for other people, even when we were in elementary school.
I’m honored to have had this chance to talk about and remember my friend Anthony Williams. I will always remember him and the sacrifice he made in serving our city. Love you Anthony.
Seth Doyle Iii
Detroit Fire Department
July 17, 2021
I will always love my dear sweet brother. From the first time I sat eyes on him at the age of 5, he was my best friend. I thank God for the man he was and for his unfailing love . I was happy my parents named him Anthony . Anthony is a beautiful soul that now lives on in heaven. Our mother joined him July 9,2019. They are alive with Christ and together , with us in memory. To God be the Glory. I could not have asked for a more loving brother and mother. Thankful for the 27 years we had and the man he became. Always trying to do what was right and just. Until we meet again when I come home, Love you and miss you.
Althea K Williams
2nd oldest sister
July 22, 2020
I remember the day vividly . I was working Gang- Squad. Terrible . Prayers again to for him and his Family. Thank You Brother in Blue.
Charles Sabo
Detroit Poluce Special Crimes Section- Gang- Sq.uad
July 20, 2020
It was hot, almost like today, it was supposed to be simple, it never is....Rest Easy Brother
P.O. Raymond Nemeckay
Partner
July 20, 2020
Thank you for your service and please know that your sacrifice is one that will never, ever be forgotten. Rest in peace always.
Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)
July 20, 2020
Rest in peace Officer Williams.
Rabbi Lewis S. Davis
June 21, 2019
Hi I know you're here cause I See you .please as I'm stuck here
Rob N Huerta
Unknown
March 31, 2018
I consider myself lucky to be your niece. Our time was limited together, but the time I had with you was great. Until we meet again, rest in peace.
Marlene Smith
Niece
August 20, 2017
Officer Williams,
On today, the 29th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just for your Community but for our Country as well when you served in the Army National Guard. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.
R.I.P.
USBP
Anonymous
United States Border Patrol
July 20, 2015
In 1986 SSG Anthony Williams was the Investigations NCO in the S-2 Section, 210th MP Battalion, Michigan Army National Guard. I was a 1LT and the S-2 (Intelligence Officer) and OIC. I was always impressed with the professional manner that Anthony Williams brought to his job every day. As someone posted here earlier, time never diminishes respect.
I thought of SSG Williams again today almost 29 years later as I heard of another Officer fatally shot while serving a warrant. I will always honor the memory of SSG Anthony Williams as long as I live.
LTC (R) Herman Kellahan
Retired, Michigan Army National Guard
May 21, 2015
Wish you were here, could really use you right about now! Love you Dad!
Stephanie Williams
Daughter
November 23, 2011
I love you dad!
Kiearha Davidson
Daughter
November 1, 2011
Anthony,
I still remember how impressed I was the first time I saw you on patrol in your cruiser. I also remember the shock I felt when I learned you had been killed. That was a terrible day in Detroit, and in our neighborhood especially.
Your memory is alive and well. RIP
Sincerely,
Capt. D. Paul
D. Paul
Department of Homeland Security
May 9, 2011
Your heroism and service is honored today, the 24th 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. Rest In Peace.
I pray for the solace of all those who love and miss you for I know both the pain and pride are forever.
Phyllis Loya
Phyllis Loya
mother of fallen officer Larry Lasater
July 20, 2010
Officer Williams,
I would like to thank you for your service. You and your family are in my prayers. My son joined you on May 29, 2003 and I know that you are both flying high.
Maxine
Anonymous
July 21, 2009
"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
November 13, 2007
I worked with Anthony just days before he was killed while at a strike detail involving the Water Dept. I had a chance to sit in the patrol car with him and talk with him. I reflect on these moments all the time. May God continue to bless your family as you rest in peace.
Sgt (Retired) James A. May
Detroit Police Department
May 2, 2007
Mrs. Locke has passed away. I spoke to your sister, Valerie, at the funeral. Valerie is doing well and looking good! We talked about your briefly. I gave her your name that I traced off the wall at the Police Memorial in D.C. She said your mom is doing well. Keep resting.
D. Paul, Special Agent
FBI
December 22, 2006
I pray that you are still resting peacefully and hope that you are watching over us down here.
Cpl. Egendoerfer
Mishawaka PD
July 20, 2006
"Ye, though I fly through the Valley of the Shadow of Death, I shall fear no Evil; For I am at 10,000 feet and climbing."
Anthony C. Williams. I grew up across the street from you. You were one cool cat! I remember how shocked we all were to learn of your death while watching TV that night.
The serving of a simple warrant ends in the death of an officer. Senseless!
You died doing what you loved to do. You're in a better place and the places your left are better for your having been there.
Rest in Peace.
Darin L. Paul, Special Agent/Pilot
Federal Bureau of Investigation
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