Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Terry,
A great turnout for your memorial today. I was not going to speak, but I saw all the police & fire present & never thought twice. What a brotherhood man, wouldn't trade it for the world. I wouldn't trade the job for the world either, even on that fateful day. Only one regret, I wish I would pulled my citation out of your hand. But that was you Terry, always "above & beyond"! I miss you brother & you know that your sacrifice is NEVER FORGOTTEN. You took my fatal round that day & I will never forget. What an honor it was to serve by your side. I can never repay you, but will some day be by your side again to say thanks! My question of "why" will never be answered here on earth, but in my heart I know why? Because Terry McDowell was always "above & beyond". Spencer brought up a point today that you were looking down on us & that I don't doubt. I hope I make you proud my brother, as I learned to be a "family man" from you.

Well enough rambling, I know your getting tired of it. I ordered a cold "Bud" for you at the bar tonight, your memory is always alive. I'll meet you out on the deck in a little bit for a stoogie.

Officer Eric H. Brill (Retired)
Whitehall Division of Police

August 24, 2007

Hi Terry, I wanted to say a few things today, the 6 year anniversary of when you were taken from your family and friends. Angie is and has been there for me from day one. She is an inspiration to me and one of my best friends. I love your family. Seth and Taylor are part of my family and my kids call them their cousins. Angie is doing an extraordinary job raising them and she is the hardest working person that I know. I know you are looking over them all of the time and it isn't the same as being there, but I know you are very proud of all of them. I love your family and I will always be there for them. Rest in Peace.

Krissy and Todd E.

August 24, 2007

Today we pay honor and respect for your service to this great country. Your never forgotten...

President Jim Gilbert
Fraternal Order of Police,Capital City Lodge #9, Columbus, Ohio

August 24, 2007

Officer McDowell,
Today is the sixth anniversary of your EOW. My thoughts go out to your family and friends who hold so many memories of you. Thank you for choosing this profession, one that so few are really cut out to do, in order to make a profound difference in the world. You did.

Pennsylvania citizen

August 24, 2007

Terry,

It's hard to believe that it'll be 6 years exactly that you were taken from us. I never really believed in silver linings shining through tragic events. But, Angie's strength and her dedication to GBTB is in fact that. The overwhelming support for GBTB from the law enforcement community has raised the bar on "Brotherhood". Which is a trait that I feel is sorely missing from Central Ohio. Gone but never forgotten, rest in peace brother we'll get it from here.

Ward
CPD

August 22, 2007

We are going on your Poker Run today. Weather looks good and hot. I am sure you are so proud of all the work that Angie has done for our brothers and sisters in public safety. She is a true blessing to our fraternal family. You may be gone from this earth but you will always be with us.

K Mielke
Reynoldsburg

August 4, 2007

On behalf of the Fraternal Order of Police, Capital City lodge #9 in Columbus, Ohio we are very sorry for the loss of your life while serving your community and our country! God bless your family!

President Jim Gilbert
Fraternal Order of Police,Capital City Lodge #9, Columbus, Ohio

July 9, 2007

Terry,
I only got to work with you briefly before I left the department for Florida back in 1995. I never took the time to thank you for trying to teach me things while we were on patrol. I wanted you to know that I use the story of your loss on a regular basis to increase safety in my current squad. Basically the lesson is, if the bad guys can take an officer like you (One who is ready and able to handle problems) away from us, the rest of us really need to be diligent and watch out for each other. I learned a lot, about myself and how to treat people, from working with you and all of the folks I got to work with at Whitehall P. D. Our loss of you has become a part of my life and I use it to wake up those who have become complacent and to remind myself.
Joe
old "Alpha-17"


Joe Slattery
Financial Crime Investigator II
Public Assistance Fraud Unit
Florida Department of Law Enforcement
Tampa Bay Regional Operations center

Joseph Slattery
Former Auxilary Patrolman A-17 91-95

July 2, 2007

It's that time of year again for me to start planning your poker run so of course my thoughts are of you. I was not aware this forum existed until I did a search tonight to make sure I didn't miss any biker sights from last year.

I sit here and read previous reflections and smile, but this doesn't last very long. Memories of that day soon return. I can still remember standing in the apparatus bay at the Firehouse talking about our bikes and what toys our boys were into. I'm sure Seth has outgrown GI Joe by now.

Well Buddy, it's late and I still have a lot of work to do on the "5th Annual Terry McDowell Memorial Poker Run". Change your oil and make sure the tires are properly inflated because August will soon be here again.

FF Lance Short
Whitehall Fire Dept. (Friend)

February 20, 2007

Terry, first off Merry Christmas. I cant believe how many years have passed and yet it seems like only yesterday we were shaving my head on New Years eve going into 2001. That was one of my fondest memories, us laughing so hard that we were crying. I miss those days. But I know you are still watching over me so your still laughing and crying with me. Ashton want's me to shave my head again but I'm afraid that it wont grow back this time.

From reading all of the reflections I can see how many people you had reached while here and the impressions you left on them. I still run into people who talk about you and the sacrafice you made. People always ask if it hurts me to talk about that day. It never bothers me to talk about you to anyone because when I do my chest sticks out and my chin raises as I talk with pride about you.

So keep up the good work watching over all of us and I will see you some day so keep the beer cold.

"Yea though I walk through the valley of death I fear no evil becuase I have the meanest son of a bitch watching over me."

Love you and miss you!

Spencer Salyers
Whitehall PD

December 27, 2006

Terry, wanted to wish you a Merry Christmas. I know you here this over and over, but the one good thing that has come from your death has been GBTB. Angie's continual efforts to make sure that another officers families are supported is relentless. The Law Enforcement community has banded together to assist in helping her make it the most worthwhile cause at least in Central Ohio. You're greatly missed and thanks for your friendship.

Gone but not forgotten!!

Andy Ward
CPD

December 18, 2006

I just wanted to say I was extremly proud of you and your service and dedication to the community and country, GOD holds a special place in heaven for men like you .Until we meet again much love NICK

Nicholas C Farrar
1st cousin

November 4, 2006

Terry-

Although we never met, I just wanted to let you know what an inspiration Angie has been to me. I could go on and on, but her dedication to Get Behind the Badge is so impressive. The annual benefit was such a success. I really had no idea just how much hard work it required. She truly honors your memory and makes sure that no one will ever forget the sacrifice you made for Whitehall residents.

From the stories she tells, it's obvious you were an outstanding man.

Marissa

October 4, 2006

Terry (Frank)

As I live everyday, as the first officer to arrive to the scene of you're shooting. I still feel the pain of not being able to help you on that dreadful day. (Helpless) The thoughts go through my mind, as I live that day over and over everyday as if was yesturday. You were not only my best friend, but you were the MAN that guided my son James Jr. in the right direction in life about joining the Navy. You were cheated out of such a great life you were living, and was taken before you got to see my son become the man you help him become today, and for that Terry, I thank you from the bottom of my heart, you would be proud, as we speak of you daily. This is the first I've left a Relection on your page, as it still hurts everyday to see you lying there, and nothing I could have done.
I had a memorial flag made to honor you, and the Ultimate Sacrifice you made that day. Believe me brother, that flag is flown with pride. Terry, remember I love you as a brother, a friend and a former Brother in Blue.
For the people that don't know why we nicked named you "Frank" it was the days you came to work pissed off, and we would always tell you to put "Frank" back in the box. (you would smile, and move on)
I know the feeling about leaving Whitehall P.D. as it saddens me that not one remark is left on here in HONOR of you from any of the Administration.

God Bless Terry, until we meet again someday.

Patrolman J. L Cook #50
Whitehall P.D. (RESIGNED)

September 4, 2006

I have been reflecting on the times that I did meet you. I may not have known you well, but I did know you through an acquainance and remember the last poker party that we had...You will be greatly missed, God Bless you, your family and millions of friends that have come to know you through this page.

B

A Friend
A Friend

August 31, 2006

Terry, my Brother it is hard to believe that you was taken from us 5 yrs ago. Yesterday we gathered together to remember your sacrifice that you made. It was hard to see your little girl have tears running down her cheeks wanting her father to hold her one more time. You will Never Be Forgotten and will be in our hearts forever.

Ptl. John Forbes
Whitehall P.D.

August 25, 2006

TO THE FAMILY, FRIENDS AND C0-WORKERS OF OFFICER MCDOWELL:
PLEASE KNOW THAT OTHERS ARE REMEMBERING HIM TODAY ON THIS ANNIVERSARY.
I HAD A SON "KILLED IN THE LINE OF DUTY" ON 09.06.01 AND HE WAS ALSO 35 YEARS OLD.
YOU WILL NEVER FORGET THAT DAY OR THE DAYS THAT FOLLOWED. YOU START REMEMBERING WHAT YOU WERE DOING THE DAYS BEFORE IT HAPPENED. YOU REMEMBER WHERE YOU WERE WHEN YOU FOUND OUT WHAT HAPPENED, YOU REMEMBER THE LAST TIME YOU TALKED WITH HIM, THE LAST DAY YOU SPENT WITH HIM, THE MOMENTS BECOME VERY VIVID IN YOUR MEMORY AS EACH ANNIVERSARY APPROACHES.
MY SON WAS KILLED AT 0130 HOURS AND EACH YEAR I GO TO THE PLACE WHERE HE DIED AT THAT TIME OF THE MORNING AND TAKE FLOWERS AND LIGHT CANDLES.
GOD BLESS YOU AND GIVE YOU STRENGTH FOR EACH NEW DAY.
GLB

August 24, 2006

To the family and loved ones of Police Officer Terry McDowell and his fellow officers with the Whitehall Police Department:

On this the fifth anniversary of Terry's tragic death, I wanted to honor and remember him today. Terry's professionalism and dedication will never be forgotten, nor will his valor and courage. I also salute his military service to our country.

In reading the loving reflections left by his wife, friends and co-workers I can see that he was very well respected and is sorely missed. I hope that God is holding him in the sweetest part of his heart and the most gentle part of his soul.

I am so sorry that Terry was robbed of his life so tragically, but through his heroism and the profound sense of duty with which he lived his life, he made an immeasurable difference. May his spirit continue to soar and may his memory continue to inspire.

This reflection is sent with the utmost respect for the dedicated service Terry gave to his community and the citizens of Ohio, and for the supreme sacrifice he and his family made on August 24, 2001.

Phyllis L. Loya, mother of fallen officer Larry Lasater, PPD
eow 4/24/05

August 24, 2006

I met Terry only a few times at a couple of softball
games and with a few of his friends i believe at roosters
on night. I believe in honor and respect for what a person
has done,and accomplished in his/her life. He was a man
with conviction and had friends and family that showed
what he waws about...The best part about knowing a person
with conviction is they usually rub off on other people
and that is a very good(the bst) trait....thank you

jeff foit
whitehall resident

August 24, 2006

Thanks for putting your life on the line to make ours safer. Not many of us can leave our homes and families everyday, not knowing if we will make it home. That takes a true Hero!
May God watch over this officers family.
God Bless.

Tonya Thurston
friend of a friend

August 24, 2006

I'm going to miss you Terry Mcdowell

Terry McDowell was a great guy and a mentor to me prior to the Military. He even talked to me before boot camp to let me know what to expect. I'll always remember that conversation at my Dad's house because that was the last time I talked to Terry. So Terry Thanks for the guidance...I never got the chance to thank you. With the Military behind me has made me a better person! I'm sure you looking down on us and keeping you children safe. Your Gone Buddy But NOT EVER FORGOTTEN!!!

James Cook Jr.
Friend

August 24, 2006

Terry,
Hard to believe it has been 5 years! I'm sure you were watching all of us during this years Poker Run and saw it grow once again. I'm sure it will continue to get bigger and raise money for a GREAT organization. Anyway, just wanted to let you know that there are a lot of people out there that think about you a lot and that you did impact people you may not have known about. Continue to watch over your fellow "Boys in Blue" and the soldiers over Seas.

Sean Landon

August 24, 2006

My thoughts on this day are with your loved ones as the 5th anniversary of your end of watch is here. I know they still think of you each and every day and your close friends in Blue think of you also. Keep watch over your loved ones and those still out on patrol protecting the Thin Blue Line. You are a true hero and will never be forgotten as heroes never die. Your loved ones are not alone as there are many of us out here and we will never let our Blue Angels be forgotten.

Bob Gordon, father of fallen Chicago Officer
Michael P. Gordon, EOW: 8/8/04

Bob Gordon, Chicago Gold Star Father

August 24, 2006

"T"

I know it has been a long time since I have left any reflections for you. It is not for lack of thinking of you every day but since I talk to you all the time, leaving a reflection sometimes seems pointless.

The 5th anniversary is now upon us and I am not sure what the day will bring. It sometimes seems like a lifetime ago and other times, it seems as if I were right there reliving it all over again. Weird huh this thing called grief. The network of people and friends I have to support me and the kids is overwhelming at times and a little sureal at others.

Well let's see, the 4th annual poker run was a huge success. There were so many people there to support the run as well as Get Behind The Badge. I think you would have been very proud. Guess what, your bike was in it again this year. Mark and I ran into the guy who bought your bike and we told him about the run. He had never been on anything like that before because he said that he didn't belong to a motorcycle club. We explained exactly what a poker run was all about and he decided to come. It was exciting to see him there and since this year is the 5th anniversary of your death, it was humbling to have your bike in the run. He was a very nice man and I have no doubts that he will take care of the bike just like you and Mark would have.

The kids are getting big. Taylor is starting kindergarten and she is really excited about it. She gets to a ride a bus this year and that is huge for her since she has watched Seth get on one for the past two years. Seth on the other hand is another story. He is a typical 13 year old and pushing every button to see how far he can go. He is going into 8th grade this year and I know it is a transitional stage for him. I hope he makes it and I don't have to send him to military school..LOL. He is playing football this year and is very excited when the coach gave him your number "32". I know that he will do well because he has you guiding him through it. Please make sure that you keep him safe because I don't want to be taking any trips to the hospital during the season.

I have met so many great people since your death and we have all become very close. It is strange the connection that we all have seeing how I probably would have never met them if we were not brought together out of tragedies. I am sure that you have now met all of their husbands and I hope that you have that same connection with them as I do the ladies. Please keep watching over us and helping us with the kids.

The memorial for you is today. I have been asked to make a speech this year. I hope that I do you justice and that I make sure your memory remains alive. Please keep watch over your brothers at the department. There have been so many changes since you left us and I know that you will continue to keep them safe.

Mark has been great and continues to support me and the kids. I have to rely on his strength some days to get me through the daily routine. Please watch over him and keep him safe because I don't think that I could endure another ordeal like yours.

I better go for now. I just wanted you to know that you are missed and thought of daily.

Until we meet again.....

Love,

Angie, Seth and Taylor

August 23, 2006

Hey brother, just wanted to say that you're missed very much and please continue to watch over us. I know I tell you this every year, but I'm still in awe on how amazing Angie is. Her continual efforts with Get Behind the Badge is an overwhelming tribute to those who have fallen. I always say that this is the one good thing that has come from your death. The brotherhood and intergrity that has evolved matches no other. We can say good bye but the Thin Blue Line never crumbles. RIP Brother we'll get it from here.

PO Andrew Ward
CPD

August 23, 2006