Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

It's been over 10 years since you left us. RIP my friend.

Patrolman James J McDonough Jr
Scottsdale PD

February 22, 2010

Your heroism and service is honored today, the tenth 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 know that your family misses you very much. I am sure you continue to watch over your loving family members and friends. I pray for their solace. So many of your fellow military peers still respect you and remember you today as evidenced in their reflections for you.

Phyllis Loya
mother of fallen officer Larry Lasater

November 19, 2009

I worked with Wes for several years at Nellis. As I was getting out in 1995 he was our acting flight chief for swing shift. I thought of him as a good guy, a very positive guy, always had a kind word. I just found out this happened to him a few months ago while talking with former A1C Fessinger who also worked with Wes. I can still see him pulling up to ART 8 or ART 9 or a gate in that L.E. Sedan always with a big smile on his face. R.I.P. my friend.

Former SrA. David J. Ahtonen
was assigned to the 554 SPS (1992-1995)

May 17, 2009

I was working in the ER the evening that Charles was transported to us. Though I did not know him, I was impressed with the love and concern that his peers, commanders, and other SP personnel expressed as they waited anxiously for news regarding his condition. And by the sentiments expressed here, it is obvious that he was loved. Thank you, Charles, for your service and example; you will not be forgotten........

My heartfelt sentiments to Charles' family and loved ones.......

Shane A. Leiser, MSgt, USAF (Retired)
former Independent Duty Medic, Nellis AFB Emergency Services

July 18, 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 12, 2008

I was stationed with TSgt. Simons (Wes) at Prince Sultan Air Base, Saudi Arabia from Aug-Dec 1997. It was a TDY that I really didn't want to be on, but the people I met and the times I had I still cherish to this day. Wes was definately one of the one's who stood out and I will always remember. He was the model human being and cop. I just wish I could have had the opportunity to know him better. I'll always remember. Rick

PO Rick Jones/ Former SrA
Kansas City MO PD/ Former USAF SP

January 1, 2008

You are remembered today and thank you Sir for your service

Pat Van Den Berghe, Manchester, NH
Neighbors for a Better Manchester, NH

November 27, 2007

I used to take my Marines for training at Nellis AFB.

Since the 1980's, I have been a frequent visitor to Vegas for rodeo events / Nellis AFB Air Shows. Rather than stay in the more expensive hotels, I usually "hide out," at Nellis AFB.

The men and women assigned to the Base Security are always nothing less than professional. I have the utmost respect
for them.

May TSgt Simons Rest - In - Peace.

Maj M. B. Parlor
USMC / LAPD

November 19, 2007

After seeing Sgt Simons memorial, I had to reflect on the 3 1/2 years I spent on the flightline and Elite Gate Guard Section of Nellis. See, Wes was my supervisor for a time. I still have an EPR with his signature on it. The memories I have of Wes are of a true professional NCO. The things that he taught me so many years ago I still utilize in my daily duties. He did it the right way. Our profession lost a great officer but more than that, a great man.

Officer James Glow
Department of Veterans Affairs Police

October 14, 2007

It has taken me years to be able to leave anything because of the shock of Wes's death. A great man who would do anything for anyone. I echo the sentiments of all previous reflections and say hello to some old friends who knew Wes also.

TSgt Bradley Jones
586 ESFS

August 7, 2007

Being a Fellow Law Enforcement Officer in the Air Force I know what it was like to work the Main gate of the Base.

I am very sorry for your lose, Charles will be remembered in my prayers.

Staff Sgt K-9 K.I. Sawyer AFB Michigan
State of Wisconsin State Patrol

July 24, 2007

I still find myself thinking about Wes and it has been 7 years. I remember Wes as a man, who loved GOD. Because of him, I have grown closer to God. For that Wes, I thank you. I spoke to Wes only days before his death. He was telling me what he was going to do when he retired and about his upcoming marriage. He loved his fiance and her son. I know this because he told me in our last conversation. I did not know this would be our last conversation or I would have stayed and talked longer. Thank you, Wes for being such an influence in my life. In death, I still think about you. Rest In Peace, my friend. I know I will see you in heaven one day.

Alice L. Wadley (Hunt)
Lawrence, Ut (Former Security Forces)

December 21, 2006

Having recently lost another good friend from the Cheyenne PD (and a former SP), it's nice to know that there are those still out there remembering Wes. A wonderful human being, who wasn't afraid to let us know that he ahd a strong relationship with God. We all should be so lucky to have such a strong faith. Stay Safe brothers and sisters.

Investigator Scott Scheffey
Wyoming D.O.R.

September 19, 2006

I had the great pleasure of knowing Simons when I was stationed at Nellis. I remember a man who was quiet, and yet full of smiles. He was a great man and will be missed by all. May we all have chior practice with him in heaven one day.

Jason Loyche
SrA

May 8, 2006

I WORKED WITH WES FOR 4 YEARS. I AM SO SAD THAT I JUST FOUND OUT 6 YEARS LATER. I CANT BELIEVE IT! THE TIMES WE WOULD GO TO THE 25 CLUB AND THE GOOD TIMES ON THE FLIGHT LINE TALKING. I WILL CHARISH THEM FOR EVER. GOD BLESS WES. ITS A SAD DAY. HE WAS A OUTSTANDING PERSON!

OFFICER MARC SWAIN
FRIEND FRANKLIN POLICE DEPT

April 22, 2006

T/Sgt. Simons,
On today, the 6th anniversary of your death, I would like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country.

R.I.P.
Anonymous

November 19, 2005

I SERVED AT NELLIS (554SPS)WITH SOME OF THE BEST POLICE OFFICERS IN THE NATION.HE WAS ONE OF THE BEST, REST IN PEACE MY BROTHER.

SGT PHILLIPS
FORMER ( SECURITY POLICE)

November 5, 2005

hope you have good memorial day

mary cocke civilian
u.s.p.p

May 31, 2004

I had the privilege to serve with Wes at Nellis AFB from 1995 until his death. We worked together on the same flight the last two years of my career. Although we had very different personailities and supervision techniques, I tried to emmulate his supervision style, and was a little envious of his calm demeanor. On the night of my last duty day, November 1999, after end-of watch, we had a huge "Choir Practice" at a local bar, the '25' Club, to mark the end of my 20 year career. Wes and his fiance were there along with the whole crew. We had a great time and I remember Wes pulling me aside and telling me that he only had one more year before he too could retire. Wes was very happy that night and I remember telling him that the last year is the best because it goes by so fast. Wes was loved by so many. When asked if I would say a few words at his funeral, I balked because I was afraid of weeping openly while I spoke about him. I felt ashamed for a long time for not speaking. Now it's four years later and I'm hoping it's not too late to say this. I'd like to write now what I was not able to say then. Wes, you are a straight arrow whom I've tried to emmulate with little success. You were a true warrior who loved and served your country, and made the ultimate sacrifice. You had no vices and never let a friend down. We still miss you. God Bless You

TSgt (Ret) James J. Mc Donough Jr.
Scottsdale Police Department

May 3, 2004

My Thoughts and prayers go out to Sgt. Simmons family, God Bless, As a former member of the 99th Security Police Sqdn. Many Years ago, Being retired since 1972, I still feel a family tie to all the Men and Women that serve in a unappreciated profession. Those who have fallen deserve more than a few lines on the back page. They walked with pride and because of Men such as Him, Believe it , The world is a better place. Thank You Charles Simmons

T/Sgt Ret, James Forrester
Somerset County Sheriff's Dept., Maine

I served with TSgt. Simons both at Nellis AFB and Prince Sultan Air Base in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for Operation Desert Storm/ Southern Watch. His life was dedicated to two things: being the best soldier he could be for his country and making those lives around him better. I always looked up to him and respected him, when I had a question he had an answer. Chuck, I'm sorry for the times I teased you and thankful for the times you laughed it off. To those of you at Nellis, learn from his example, we need more men like him protecting our country. Goodbye Chuck, watch over us.

Patrolman Tharp
N.S.U. Public Safety

As a former member of the security forces field, I felt compelled to write this, My thoughts and prayers go out to your family and all those families seperated from their loved ones.

Anonymous

When one falls, we all stumble. It matters not if we wear civilian or military uniforms we stnad in the gap for those who can't or won't. Thank you sir, to you and your family for all you have done. Even to the ultimate measure. Our Department Honors you as a hero. As you patrol Heavens streets enjoy the peaceful walk with God.

Anonymous

It is a shame that another Officer of the Law has to end his duty this way. I use to be an MP and know how people get when you try to enforce the rules that will ensure their safety. I'll pray for TSgt. Simmons's family. They are my family to. God Bless!

Dir. Gary Wolter
International MP K-9 Association

I had severed with Tech Sgt. Simons at Nellis AFB, NV when it was still the 554th Security Police Sq. He was a very good man that always had a smile on his face. He loved his job and nothing brought him more joy. He knew his job and did it well. I had learned alot from him. He will be missed.

Former SrA. Solon W. Burch
Was assigned to 554th Security Police Sq.