Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

I remember Ricardo when he was about 5 or 6 years old at Spain. I remembered him wearing gray shorts, shirtless, and bare footed while running at the military housing unit known as Royal Oaks back in 1983. Even back then, he was stocky and built like a linebacker. He turned out to be a handsome young man who joined the Border Patrol agency and unfortunately had his life ended tragically while performing his duty. I still remember that his death anniversary is the 1st week in July. To Art, Elisa and sister, may the memories of him last you a lifetime.

Arturo Rivas
Friend

July 4, 2013

I think of you often. I never met you...but I was one of so many officers sent to San Benito that day.

There were so many of us at your funeral, we took turns listening to the eulogies and standing guard outside.

"In valor there is hope." —Tacitus

Thank you.

Anonymous Officer

June 17, 2013

Rest in Peace brother, we have the Watch

Policeman
Phoenix Police, Brother in Blue

May 7, 2013

In our journey of life, some of us are very fortunate to meet people that will leave a lasting impression on us. Such is the case with Ricardo Salinas and Susan Rodriguez. Both were very young and in the prime of the lives and careers, when they were gunned down by a ruthless killer. Rick and Susan were Border Patrol Agents actively serving their country when the lost their lives in the line of duty.
Rick and Susan were dedicated professional Federal Agents with the United States Border Patrol that swore allegiance to protect and preserve the Constitution of the United States from foreign and domestic enemies at all cost. Like many others before them, they paid the ultimate sacrifice to ensure that all citizens of the United States enjoyed their freedom and liberties. Liberty is not free! Constant vigilance must be maintained by our military and federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to promote domestic tranquility, ensure for the public welfare, and secure the blessing of liberty as per our Constitution.
Rick and Susan leave a legacy of honor and heroism that has inspired and gave courage to those that follow in their footsteps. Rick and Susan exemplified the true meaning of sacrifice, honor, integrity and pride. I am proud and honored to have known and worked with these two great American heroes.

Honor First!!!

Uvaldo Garcia, Retired Assistant Chief
RGV Sector, U. S. Border Patrol

February 20, 2013

To the greatest hero in our family who lives in our hearts, we continue to miss you everyday, every holiday, every birthday, and every celebration. God took away from us so early in life, but he took directly into heaven so you could watch over us. The void in our lives has been tremendous, but we know your spirit is still with us. I know you are very close to God, because the day you were baptized was a very special day. You were baptized at midnight on resurrection day. This makes so special and gives you a special placethe heaven, just like Jesus. Everlasting life was prepared for you on this special day. I know you watch over us and take care of us just like a guardian angel. We will never orget you, we continue to love you with all our hearts. Your memories live with us and you shyful smile never disappears. We love you and miss you

Love you,

Terri Sustaita
Aunt

December 26, 2012

you will never be forgotten you were like a son to us and are always in our hearts may you rest in peace gone but never forgotten

smsgt retired
future son-in-law

December 24, 2012

Thinking of you and all of your loved ones today. Continue to keep watch over all of them, you have not been forgotten.

"You will live on in the heats and minds,
Of the loving family you left behind."

Bob Gordon, Ret. Deputy Chief
Father of Fallen Chicago Officer: Michael P. Gordon, EOW: 8/8/04

July 7, 2012

I think of you everyday and wonder what life would have been like if you were still here. I wish we could have done the things that siblings do as they get older. I have tons of memories though of us growing up and I will carry them with me forever.

Elisa Martinez
Sister

December 6, 2010

I remember him as a courteous and overachiever. He excelled in all endeavors. He died in the line of duty after working a night shift and was valountarily assiting local law enforcement agencies in the apprehension of a multiple murder suspect. He did not have to participate, but he did. Had another "peace officer" been as dedicated, Ricardo would be with us today. Justice in his death has never been achieved.

CMSgt Alberto I. Sanchez
US Air Force , Ret.

December 4, 2010

Rest in peace my Brother.

Deputy S. Yates
Covington County Sheriff Dept.(MS.)

November 4, 2010

Sir, I am truly honored to be able to leave something in your memory today, to be able to reflect on your sacrifice. I know no other words to say, but 'thank you'. May you rest in peace.

Friend of USFS Off. Kris Fairbanks, RIP 9-20-08

K.L.

October 7, 2010

Your heroism and service is honored today, the twelth 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 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 those who love and miss you for I know both the pain and pride are forever.

Rest In Peace

Phyllis Loya

Phyllis Loya
mother of fallen officer Larry Lasater

July 7, 2010

As I look at the faces of the men and women here, I see the faces of my co-workers. I can imagine each of them shooting the bull and swapping war stories at choir practice as the meat sizzles on the grill. I see them laughing, pranking and teasing their fellow agents, as we often do when we relieve stress. I wish that each of them were still here to share the good times.

And I feel compelled to look at each of the faces here and remember…to remember that each of them made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country and we should NEVER forget them or their service.

Too often the sacrifices of those who serve our country are overlooked or casually dismissed by the very public they served so selflessly. But WE should never forget them…each and every one of them. May they each rest in peace eternally in God’s loving embrace.

SBPA James Doran
US Border Patrol

July 22, 2008

Agent Salinas your work as we know it on this Earth is done. You are in God's Hands now brother. May you rest in peace.

SGT. Daryl Brewer
Clarksville Police Dept. Clarksville, Tennessee

June 2, 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 © 1993 - All Rights Reserved
and may not be duplicated without permission

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

March 19, 2008

well you will be always in my heart and will be miss by many...your memory will always be carried on by family and love ones and you will never be forgotten..

little cousin

February 7, 2008

Agent Salinas,
On today, the 9th anniversary of your murder, I would like to say thank you to you and your Journeyman for your service and sacrifice for our Country and the Patrol. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
A fellow BPA

Anonymous

July 7, 2007

Just wanted to let you know that you are not forgotten. July 07, 1998 is a day I'll never forget. You and your family will always be in our hearts.

Gary Renick, Senior Special Agent, ICE
Former USBP, McAllen, TX

May 4, 2007

We offer our heartfelt sympathy to the family, friends and colleagues of Agent Salinas and we honor his distinguished service to the cause of justice and peace. Sadly, our nation has lost one of its finest citizens, a community has lost a friend and protector, and a family has lost an example of character and courage who they will love and respect forever. Today, because of the sacrifice Agent Salinas has made, the house of freedom is stronger, sturdier, and more secure.

To the family and friends of Agent Salinas, I would like you to know that a lot of people pray for you, and my hope is that their prayers will give you the strength necessary to move on. Just as you were always with him when he walked the beat or patrolled the streets, know that he will always be with you - wherever you may be. In the days to follow, may you be strengthened by the fact that Agent Salinas is a man distinguished by exceptional courage and will always be admired for his brave deeds and noble qualities. You, your family and your sacrifice will never be forgotten.

SA Thomas Doyle
FBI New York City

March 9, 2007

TO A BELOVED FRIEND AND CLASSMATE.  YOU ARE MISSED BY ALL-- ALL OF YOUR FAMILY AND YOUR EXTENDED FAMILY AT THE BROTHERHOOD OF THE PATROL.  MAY GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY AND DEAR ONES THAT YOU HAVE LEFT BEHIND.  BUT IF EVER A CLASS MOTO HAD A SIGNIFICANCE, IT WAS OURS.  "POR AQUI, NO PASA NINGUNO."  THE MOTTO'S MEANING WAS INTENDED TO PROTECT OUR COUNTRY'S BORDERS AGAINST ILLEGAL ALIENS AND DRUG SMUGGLER'S. BUT THE MEANING RINGS CLEAR IN OUR THOUGHTS AND OUR HEARTS TOWARDS YOU RICARDO.  YOU WILL NOT PASS.  TRES CINCO UNO FOREVER.

JEREMY TROCHA
U.S.B.P

Ricky Ricardo, Shorty, you were such a good academy friend.

You, believed I could pass the Academy when I did not believe I could.  You believed in me when we went on to our assignment in Harlingen.  You were so encouraging during a time when I needed encouragement.  You entrusted me with intimate details. Thanks!  After you were taken so suddenly  I really feel in my heart that I worked with the best and no one else could fit your shoes.  Nothing in my life has ever been the same.  How can I ever go and believe your name is on a tombstone?  I can not...because I feel your energy.  It is as if the assasin did not get you.

Maybe we could not back you due to the circumstances, and that still tears me up. A whole year after you were gone I sat staring at that river looking to the north whishing I could change that day. If I could change places I would...even if it hurt.  Once we talked and we all said we would want it fast if it happened.  You are my hero Ricky.  You stood on a line and chose your side on modern day and just to have been stationed with you is enough.  For me, everything else is in the background. Thanks for teaching me to have pride in being a UTSA graduate and God I miss your words of encouragement,You making me laugh when I thought I could not stand it anymore. I am glad for the times we expressed our differences and yet with you I could...thanks for that too.  You were the only one who ever said, "You are one of the guys, come sit by us"...and for the rest of my life as a female no matter where I go and what I do, you are engraved in my heart.  God Blessed me Ricky by letting me be an academy classmate with you, by letting me go through post-academy with you, and for letting me celebrate our achievement with you. That was a new years.  Maybe I could not stay long after you went on...It was not the same for me...I had worked with the best...everything else was nothing. I still miss you like forever.  Thank-you for your support, for believing in me even if you new my faults. Now that you know I do not know everything just because I am an older female, I have to tell you, "I am sorry I did not just tell you..'I do not know the answer to that, and that and that...but for you I will find out'"...and somehow I know you still believe in me...when I still doubt me.  Thank-you for trusting me.  If there is a river of life up there, there has got to be a levy ha?  God, Shorty until I see you again, can you believe it, I am forever looking up to you?! Love you, EMReyna,ex- BPClass 351 member.  

Elsa M. Reyna
Class 351 Member

God blessed us with your presence for such a short period of time. In this short time, you gloriously entered our hearts where you will remain forever. I have precious memories of our times together, such as our trip to Lourdes, France. You must have been about eight years old when we were faced with the dilemma of having to order food in a French restaurant. You eagerly and playfully said, "I will order French toast and French fries." This reflects one of many wonderful times we spent together.

Grandson, as you were growing up, I watched you participate in many activities and earn many achievements. Time went by so fast. You earned a high school diploma and immediately a Bachelor's Degree. Your aspiration to be an FBI agent was great. The U.S. Border Patrol was just a starting point.

Your first assignment as a Border Patrol Agent took you to the Valley town of Harlingen, TX. It was a tragedy that your life was cut short by the son of a Detective who kept unauthorized power weapons at his residence. Grandson, although our Father in Heaven took you so suddenly, I am certain you have met up with Grandma and your Uncle Pete.

Love, Grandpa

Juan T. Sustaita

Juan T. Sustaita (Grandfather)

Para nuestro querido Ricardo:

En honor a sus raices escribo en Espanol.

Como olvidarme de aquellos tiempos cuando Ricardo y mis hijos, aun ninos, jugaban y hablaban de lo querian ser cuando fueran grandes. Desde pequeno Ricardo se destacaba por ser el mas fuerte, el mas veloz, el mas arriesgado, y sobre todo el mas inteligente.
Y crecio Ricardo, llego a ser lo que queria, ya estaba ahi, tan cerca y aunque ahora nos queda solo su recuerdo, yo se que donde quiera que este, sigue siendo fuerte, veloz, arriesgado he inteligente. De seguro NUESTRO PADRE lo necesitaba para un plan mucho mas grande, Que Dios te bendiga.

Aunque no soy poeta:

De nino conoci a Ricardo

de alma inquieta y bravia

en hombre se habia formado

pero Dios, otros planes tenia.

Lo lloran su hermana y sus padres,

lo lloramos tambien sus amigos.

...Ayudanos Dios Padre,

y danos consuelo y abrigo.

Rossi

SMSgt and Mrs Max R. LeClaire
USAF (Ret)

Throughout our lives, we look up to people who, like eagles, set a soaring example for us strive for. On the broad wings of duty, honor, dedication, kindness, and even friendship Ricardo set such an example for me. As little kids, running around the neighborhood at Warner-Robbins Air Force Base, Ricardo was always somebody I looked up to. Being the youngest and smallest in our group of friends, I found myself bullied around a lot. But not when Ricardo was with us. Ricardo would often back me up and not let anyone push me around. That's the kind of guy he was to me then and that was the kind of guy he was to his partner the day he was killed... a supporter, a defender, a true friend. As fellow students at the University of Texas, Ricardo continued his example. I remember the day he told me he was going to serve in the Border Patrol and eventually the FBI. I remember admiring him for setting such high goals and admiring him even more because I knew he would succeed. Ricardo helped give me the courage to set high goals for myself. He has also given those of us who serve our country a reason, no... an inspiration to wear our uniforms proudly and with dignity. To this day I try to follow Ricardo's soaring example, only now I can't see him. You see, some eagles fly so high that you can't see them anymore. But you know they are there, amidst the sky, looking down from above....

Para Usted, Ricardo

Su Amigo, Siempre

Eddie

2nd Lt Edgar Le Claire
United States Air Force

It seems like it was only yesterday that we as a family rejoiced upon receiving news of your birth. Your birth was very special, for you were our first nephew and our parent's first grandson. Your Father's military career enabled you to see many parts of the world. We always anticipated your arrival home with much excitement. As a child you displayed great initiative and determination as was evident in your early success at baseball and tae kwon do. Your decision to serve your country upon graduating from The University of Texas San Antonio was a most honorable one. We as a country are forever indebted to you. We as a family are eternally grateful to you! We love you! We miss you! We thank you for being the perfect role model for our younger generation! We look up to you now more than ever!

Juan J. Sustaita
Uncle