Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Hey man,
It's been 6 years since I last heard your voice and it still rings fresh in my mind. I reminisced with the other Brian about all our crazy endeavors a few weeks and ago...we laughed and at times we wanted to cry. Thanks for memories. I miss you Bro!

B

Brian H

July 29, 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 27, 2008

I know that I'm a few days early but I wanted to say Happy Birthday....Skaggs said he'll celebrate for the both of you:) Look for your balloons on Sunday.....I love you

Eshe

sister

March 7, 2008

I can't believe how often I think about you. It's been so long, and yet so often my thoughts turn to our time together. I still laugh when I think about how you always joked I was your sister's age and you couldn't possibly be seen with me. Your wardrobe of t-shirts and cargo pants made you seem "so much older", lol. You showed me how to have fun without taking myself to seriously. I remember opening the sparkling cider when you moved in to your Alexandria apartment, and seeing how you left all those letters and accolades taped to the closet in your old apartment. I wish I would have torn them down and kept them like I wanted to, at least I would have had something of meaning to share. I remember reading about how you heroically took guns of the street and in one instance the commendation referred to your bravery in chasing down the perp for over a mile and not letting up until you took him down. What I regret the most is not talking to anyone at the viewing or the funeral. In fact at one point I was in the bathroom with your ex and your son and was at a complete loss for words.
But for now I always remember the good times. You always wanted to hang out and have a good time, just good ole clean fun. I'm sorry that I didn't take your call that night. I have never forgiven myself for that, especially since we had been arguing. Who knows? Maybe those few extra minutes could have changed the course of everything. When I meet you again I can tell you how much you impacted my life in those five months. So much so that I can't seem to put you out of my thoughts.

I miss you.

"your little buddy"

February 13, 2008

Officer Farthing, thank you for your service. Neither you, nor your sacrifice, will ever be forgotten. Continue to watch over your family giving them the love, guidance and support they need.

5 years in jail hardly seems fair for choosing to drink, choosing to drive and ultimately choosing to kill another human being because of a history of poor choices!

Rest in peace Officer Farthing.

Michelle - wife of Retired LEO

August 15, 2007

What's up Hakim,

It's amazing that it seems like yesterday we were in the academy. All your class mates have grown. CIB, Boat Unit, MPOs, FTIs to name some. Some bucking for promotion if they ever give the test. I took a moment to read the world's thoughts of you and I shed a tear. Haha... you'd probably call me a punk.

EJ is tall just like you and he's doing well. His Mom is doing a great job with him. But I'm sure you know that. You are missed. Thank you for keeping watch over us and give my best to Brent. Show him the ropes, will ya.

One of your D5 Brothers
US Park Police

June 18, 2007

Hakim was a friend of mine. I was an agent with the State Dept's Diplomatic Security Service and Hakim was a uniform officer for the State Dept. During a detail in Sheperdstown, West Virginia, we got to become good friends. Hakim had a great sense of humor and I enjoyed being around him.

A couple of years later during the UN General Assembly, Hakim and I got together and had a drink. Actually, Hakim didn't drink, I did all the drinking. The last time I saw Hakim he was working down by the White House and we saw each other by chance.

Hakim, may you rest in peace. May your son know what a fine man you were during your short time on this earth. I think of you quite often and remember you in my prayers.

Your friend,
Bill D.

Bill D.
Former DSS Agent

May 19, 2007

Hakim,
We grew up together. From the time we crawled to our adult years we were always close. I remember the many times we spent together. We would joke and laugh until we lost our breath. Hopefully you will know that I always remember you. It has taken me a long time to realize that you are not here physically anymore. Every time I hear a song from the early 90's I think of you. It seems really odd that I am writing this because we never got to say goodbye, or see you later to one another. You will always be my brother. And one day we will be able to reflect on life together again.

SSgt. Ebon D. Mitchell
United States Air Force

April 18, 2007

Dear Hakim,
A simple argument is what kept us apart for years. You were the only sincere, platonic friend I have known. I have never forgotten you and always wondered where you were in life. I am sad to say that my search for you is what led me to this memorial. I still talk about you to this day. Your energy and spirit make my heart warm.
May God be pleased with you.
sakinah

March 2, 2007

I saw a rememberance of the four year anniversary the other day at D-4 ... rest in peace knowing that you are not forgotten.

Ofc. Connor
USPP D-4

August 14, 2006

To the family and loved ones of Officer Hakim Farthing and his fellow officers with the U.S. Park Police Department:

On this the fourth anniversary of Hakim's tragic death, I wanted to honor and remember him today. Although I never had the privilege of meeting Hakim, I feel as if I know him through the loving reflections left by loved ones and friends. His valor and courage will never be forgotten.
The lessons he taught to those he mentored will be carried forward.

I cannot help but feel that justice was not served in this case where the drunk driver only got five years. Driving a car while intoxicated and killing an innocent person is no different than pulling a gun in my opinion.

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 Hakim was robbed of his life so tragically, but through 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 years of dedicated service Hakim gave to his community and the citizens of our country, and for the supreme sacrifice he and his family made on August 10, 2002.

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

August 11, 2006

It has been 4 years since you were called away from duty and the tears still flow from the hearts of those that love you and will for many more years. You are a true hero and I salute you for your dedicated service to you country and to law enforcement. Stay close to your loved ones and protect them from harm, also keep watch on those still out on patrol.

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

Bob Gordon, Gold Star Father

August 10, 2006

There are times when I am all alone and my thoughts wander to you.
I see you smile and hear your contagious laughter.
I find myself imagining what it would be like to enjoy your company one more time.
In my mind I see your boyish grin and remember your manly charm.
If memory serves me right your tall physique and handsome features could always turn heads.
I miss your wacky sense of humor and your quick-witted sarcasm.
I still don't understand why you were taken away, but I'm grateful that I had a small portion of your time.
You are missed. March is here again and I don't get to sing Happy Birthday to you.
You are a Hero. You have touched so many hearts and lives and left a lasting impression on us all.

MM

March 6, 2006

Brother Farthing,

May the road rise up to meet you,
May the wind be always at your back,
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
And the rains fall soft upon your fields,
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand.

Respectfully,
You’re Brothers in Blue

Untouchables LE Motorcycle Club

January 21, 2006

Hakim,

I'm just thinking of you as always with a smile since we shared the same sense of sarcastic humor. As another year approaches, I still await hope that time heals everything, but obviously it keeps passing me by. One thing is for certain,your memories are always here with me, forever...

jt

December 31, 2005

Hey Sweetheart,

It's me. Still think about you. Funny how I know that you are watching over me. It's just this feeling that I can't explain, but I just know that you are there by my side when I need you. You are still my superstar, and I still compare everyone I meet to you. And yes, still no comparison. Wish you were still here. Thanks for watching over me, you are my guardian angel.

Your "little buddy"

September 22, 2005

I am just learning of your life and tragic death. In school, I was taught about the "Thin Blue Line" and my immediate sense was how much thinner it was due to your absence. However, upon deeper reflection, it just might be so that the "Thin Blue Line" is actually thicker - because of your contributions and sacrifice - given the numerous inspirational messages left to you.

Peace be unto you for ever.

Paul Gardner, Esq.

August 29, 2005

Hard to believe it's been 3 years. You are still in my thoughts and your family in my prayers. You are missed and your memory guides me to be the best I can be. Thanks for watching over us while we are out there.

Officer
U.S. Park Police

August 10, 2005

3 years today.........I think of you every day, especially when I put on my blue suit. If nothing else, I have learned that a vehicle is just as deadly as a bullet....I encourage my colleagues to approach the passenger side instead of the driver’s side.

Hakim, you are an inspiration and have changed my life forever...Till we meet again....My brother...

August 10, 2005

The tributes attest to the lives you touched. Your tour was short, but so meaningful.
It is in your memory that we who wear the badge continue on each day.
Thank you for your service.

Master Trooper
Virginia State Police

August 10, 2005

Hello Angel,

It seems more and more now that I've moved back to Maryland that I find myself thinking about you. I take the parkway almost every week now--the same road that I said I'd never take, and didn't want to know. I didn't know how short of a time GOD would put you in my life and I'm sorry about our last couple of weeks. I should have picked up the phone that night. I can't help but think that just maybe if I had taken your call that night that you would still be here with us. I'm sorry I ignored you that night, and I have not been able to forgive myself for it since your death. I can't help but wonder what could have been if things had only turned out differently. You are stil, "the best person I know" and I find myself comparing everyone to you. Nobody comes close though. I'm sorry for not understanding. Please continue to watch over me like I know you have been.

Your "Little Buddy"

May 19, 2005

Hakim,
I remember the times we spent together at Rutgers. You were one of the funniest, kindest, sweetest people I ever met. My family's prayers go out to all those whom you have touched. You are truly unforgettable and you will always be in my heart and prayers. Love ya!

Shani Jefferson-Newell

April 19, 2005

You are missed tremendously. Especially around your Birthday. I miss your humor. Please continue to watch over and protect all of you friends and loved ones, the way you did when you were here.

Mel

March 11, 2005

A Million Times

A million times we've needed you,
A million times we've cried.
If love alone could've saved you,
You would have never died.
In life we loved you dearly,
In death we love you still.
In our hearts you hold a place,
No one else could ever fill.
It broke our hearts to lose you,
But you didn't go alone.
Part of us went with you,
The day God took you home.

March 4, 2005

Hakim, I never met you but you have had an influence on my life. How is that? Your legend lives on in the stories that I've heard from your brothers with whom you served at Ft. Myer. Gio speaks so highly of you. I know that you must be a one of a kind, for he speaks highly of nobody!

I hope you know that you will never be forgotten. I can't make a DWI arrest without thinking of your funeral.

Take care brother. Until we meet....

Police Officer
Arlington County (VA) Police Department

February 17, 2005