Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Rest in peace Phil. We will see you again someday..

Deputy Andrew Goodman
Broward Sheriff's Office

May 9, 2004

In Memory of Deputy Philip G. Billings

You’ve been gone for a year now
but it still feels like yesterday
You are missed so much by all of us
I still ask why you and why that way?

You were so young, so much still ahead
There were so many things we all wanted for you
I still wish I had the chance
Just to tell you what your words could do

I never really got to know you the way I wanted
Now it’s too late and I wish that I had
I miss you so much and can’t explain
the feeling I get when I think of you; it’s sad

How does God choose those who join him?
Hopefully one day I’ll see you again
If I had one more chance, I’d tell you
there isn’t anything I wouldn’t do, not even then

You did so much for me from the moment we met
I didn’t think that would be the last night
I thought along the road we’d meet again
You know I would have done anything to help you keep your life!

Anonymous

May 4, 2004

So short was your life,
and so much you have done
You touched hearts
of so many people
and made difference
in their lives
You will be missed
Forever

Very saddly,with a great respect for all our law enforcement
officers.

Simona,EMT
Fort Lauderdale

April 21, 2004

Philip,

I still get chills when I remember the BOLO going out and finding out it was you. I kept repeating your name over and over as if it was a mistake. It couldn't possibly be you, so soon out of the academy. This was what we heard of, not experienced. I can still see clearly how huge your funeral was. Although it was sad, it was beautiful. I'm sorry I couldn't go to the graveyard with you. I wouldn't have been able to handle it. I hope you can see from what I do now, that I built up my courage, in order to support other families in their time of grief.

I don't think there has been a day that has gone by that you have not been thought of. Everytime I put on my gear to go to work, I kiss my family a little longer and say more "I love yous" since you were taken from us. I think you would enjoy knowing that you have an impact on me in this world. I hope that your family continues to heal with time, and know that we will always be there for them and you. We will not forget you. You are loved. We miss you.

Academy Mate from 208

April 17, 2004

Phil it has been a year. I miss you.

Deputy C. Periu
Broward Sheriffs Office

April 12, 2004

It's been over a year and we still miss you every day Phil. The shifts not the same with out you. Not a day goes by that your not in my thoughts but I know your in a better place. God Bless you and your family.

Deputy from Dist 9
Broward Sheriffs Office

April 11, 2004

Father in Heaven, warriors throughout time have always asked You for strength, for courage and for wisdom-particularly in those times when we felt most alone.

Look kindly on Philip's fiancee and the entire Billings Family on this sad anniversary.
Grant them your Strength, Father. Grant us enough Courage to stand tall for them today, to honor our brother one more time. And bless all of us with Your Wisdom.

Look after our families and everyone who worries about us, as we take up weapons and shields to serve you.
Every night. Every day. And every trip away from home.

Amen.

Ofc. Martin Castellanos, Chaplain
Boca Raton PD/FOP Lodge35/USCG TACLET South

April 8, 2004

I stop by this website often after the death of two dear friends with the NCSHP (Troopers Calvin Taylor E.O.W. October 3, 2001 and Anthony Cogdill E.O.W. May 30, 2003).

We all grieve over the lives lost in the line of duty. I hope you can find some comfort knowing that there are countless prayers that go out for your family.

Deputy Billings, you are remembered on this one year anniversary of your death and will always be remembered.

These are senseless tragedies that never seem to stop. God Bless the men and women who continue to serve their communities in our great Nation.

...Gone, but never Forgotten....

Marti (EMT-Paramedic)
Haywood Co EMS (NC)

April 6, 2004

I can still remember that night, when the BOLO was issued for the suspects and when our 2 K9 units went up there. You are gone, but not forgotten. Rest in peace brother...

Lt. Raymond Ketchmark
Pembroke Pines Police Explorers

December 6, 2003

YOU'RE GONE, BUT NEVER TO BE FORGOTTEN. A PIECE OF EVERYONES HEART IN THE LAW ENFORCEMENT COMMUNITY ALSO RESTS.MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOUR FAMILY AND MAY GOD GRANT THEM PEACE, AND HOPEFULLY ONE DAY YOU WILL OPEN UP THE GATES FOR ME.

DEPUTY MICHAEL RODRIGUEZ
BROWARD SHERIFF'S OFFICE

November 22, 2003

YOU'RE GONE, BUT NEVER TO BE FORGOTTEN. A PIECE OF EVERYONES HEART IN THE LAW ENFORCEMENT COMMUNITY ALSO RESTS.MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOUR FAMILY AND MAY GOD GRANT THEM PEACE, AND HOPEFULLY ONE DAY YOU WILL OPEN UP THE GATES FOR ME.

DEPUTY MICHAEL RODRIGUEZ
BROWARD SHERIFF'S OFFICE

November 22, 2003

I did not know his name nor did I know his face. I was a daisy fresh Robbery Detective with 2 days in the unit when he met his fate.
However, I can say, without hesitation, that being indirectly involved with his investigation to idenitfy and hunt down the two lost souls who took his life in the blink of an eye, has touched my heart and soul forever.

I witnessed an entire Police agancy pull together as one, with one heart, one mind and one goal. "To bring the suspects to justice!"
I witnessed the anger and grief that his family and friends endured through this tragic time, with magnanimous strengh and courage.
I witnessed the true reality of what a real "HERO" is, not one who can throw a 70 yard touchdown pass to win the Super Bowl, or hit a baseball 450 feet to win the World Series, but one who puts the badge on every day with pride, dignity and passsion to protect ones pursuit of life, liberty and happiness.
I witnessed and will truly cherish every day, the experience of one entity coming together as one.

To the famiy of Deputy Billings, I would not be able to comprehend the pain of your loss. However, your strength is paramount in helping us deal and cope with the loss of a member of our family as well. May God Bless you and your son.

To my good friend Deputy Craig Costa. "Be safe my brother." Your postings were very touching.

Deputy Scott Jordan
Broward Sheriff's Office

November 18, 2003

On April 10, we join Philip’s loved ones, friends and fellow officers in mourning his passing. Philip was a member of a class that respected and admired him, as much then as we do today. Although he was sometimes quiet and rarely spoke of his own accomplishments, it was well known among us that he possessed knowledge, experience and caring characteristics beyond his young age, thus earning him the heartfelt nickname “El Doctor.” Not a day went by that Philip was not seen smiling, cracking jokes, or in serous situations, being a role model. He was then and will always be an inspiration for us to live our lives to the fullest and to continue the mission of protecting and serving our communities in the same honorable fashion he did each day.

A man of immense caring and integrity, he was an amazing person in every sense of the word. Philip lived a life dedicated to those he loved, and also to those whom he barely knew. His endless hours of volunteerism locally and missionary work around the world are just the beginning of why Philip was truly an amazing individual. He was someone you may have only known for a brief time, but felt you knew for a lifetime. Through his service as a dedicated law enforcement professional, he continued his passion for assisting those in need. His will and drive to do what is right led to him accomplishing so much and earning the admiration of so many in just 25 years. In his honorable life, he was a mentor, a protector, a loved family member and friend, and so much more. In his passing, he is a hero.

Today, our hearts are heavy as we recall our class motto, “Standing as many, United as one.” Philip, please know that you will always be one with us, as our hero and loved friend.

Philip's Academy Classmates
208th class of Broward Institute of Public Safety

November 16, 2003

A Brother Warrior has fell and died today in battle.

This Brother Warrior has made the ultimate sacrifice.

He has given his life for his Fellow Warriors, his family and friends too.

Brother Warrior, pass your sword to us, so we can keep your spirit alive.

You, my Brother Warrior will not be forgotten.

God Bless you, your family and your friends.

We honor and respect all of the Fallen Warriors who have gone before us.

We ask you, Brother Warriors to guide us, protect us and pray for us.

We will meet again my Brother Warriors.

For this time not to fight another battle, but to live in eternal peace.

God bless all of the Warriors, past, present and future.

Sgt. Chad McDaniel
Seminole County Sheriff's Office

November 12, 2003

In Memory of Deputy Philip Billings

I never got to thank him
or tell him how he helped me then.
If there was anything I could have done
there for him I'd have been.

Maybe he could tell
who knows maybe he knew.
Although he didn't say much
just what his calming words could do.

It seemed that he really cared
that he knew how scared I was.
I don't believe he ever would
pretend he cared just because.

Now I don't have the chance
to make sure that he knows.
I wish I could tell him now
but unfortunately it was his time to go.

I never got to thank him
or tell him how he helped me then.
If there was anything I could have done
there for him I'd have been.

Anonymous

October 27, 2003

We had all been so close to getting off probation. We thought we were invincible, that we wouldn't go to a funeral in a long time, especially not one of our classmates. And if it ever did happen, the last person it would be was you. God needed you more than we did, I guess. It doesn't make it any easier.

You're still in my thoughts and prayers Philip.

Rest In Peace My Brother

September 14, 2003

Every day that I watch Jerry get dressed and leave for work, I think of you, Philip, and how tragically your life ended. Just like that, you were gone. I pray that I never have to experience the loss that your family has experienced. You left this earth, just as our son came into this world. You never got the chance to meet him, but I know you are looking down on him and smiling. I hope that he is half the man that you were. I did not get the chance to know you that well, but your memory will forever be with us. You were a wonderful deputy and friend. You will truly be missed by your family in District 9 and by our family.

Liz Preville-Wurms
Wife of Philip's Sergeant, Jerry Wurms

There is no sadder duty than to bury a fellow comrade, yet no greater honor than to pay our respects to a true hero the best and only way we know how. After its all said and done, we cherish your memory in our hearts and souls, and your memory lives on in each on of us.

Deputy Billings, your sacrifice was not in vain, and you will remain in our hearts and minds for all time.

For its not only how you died that that made you a hero, its how you lived.

Philip your watch here is over, Heaven needed another hero, and you answered the call. Watch over your fellow brothers and sisters who remain here to answer the call and rest in peace. God bless your family and friends.

Sgt. Edward Chaves
Broward Sheriff's Office Honor Guard

To the family and friends of Deputy Billings you are all in my prayers. Its hard for us as LEO's to here of fellow brothers being taken from us, but we continue to wear our badges and uniform in honor of these brave men and women who gave there live's to keep our friends and family safe every night. God Bless You All!

Police Officer Sergio Montesino Sr
DHS/Mt. Weather Police, Round Hill, VA

I am so sorry for Philip's death. I know GOD is watching him. GOD will keep him in our hearts and I know that Philip is up there watching his friends and family. We will never forget him. ~~~<~@ <-(rose)

Melissa B.- Daughter of a Deputy Sheriff
Broward County Sheriff's Office Florida

philip billings was the greatest example of a christian and a missionary kid. as a fellow MK, missionary kid, i must say that philip made a big impact on my life. although we werent in the same country, there was that special bond between philip and i, the bond that missionary kids have with each other. as i sit here today, i mourn his loss, not for him because for him it was a gain, but i mourn for his family, for me, and every person who knew him. thank you philip for being there for me during my hard times. i cant wait til the day i am reunited with you and my brother...take care of my brother til i get there :)

Kersten Rogers

My heartfelt sympathy goes out to the family and fellow officers of Deputy Billings.

While many of us in law enforcment wear different colored uniforms, we all share a common goal. We protect society from the criminal element. Rest well my friend, those of us who remain will cover your place on the thin blue line.

Anonymous

A Part Of America Died
Somebody killed a policeman today,
and part of America died.
A part of our country he swore to protect,
will be buried with him at his side.
The suspect that shot him will stand up in court,
with counsel demanding his rights.
While a young widowed fiancee must spend
many long lonely nights.
The beat that he walked was a battlefield too,
just as if he had gone off to war.
Though the flag of our nation won't fly at half mast,
to his name they will add a gold star.
Yes somebody killed a policeman today,
in your town or mine.
While we slept in comfort behind our locked doors,
a cop put his life on the line.
Now his ghost walks a beat on a dark city street,
and he stands at each rookie's side
He answered the call,
of himself gave his all,
And a part of America died.

I don't know the author of this poem.

Please keep watch over all LEOS left behind.

Retired Officer Suzanne Henery
Pompano Beach Police Department

BUFFALO, NEW YORK

DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS POLICE OFFICERS
WISH TO SEND OUR CONDOLENCES. OUR THOUGHTS
AND PRAYERS ARE WITH DEPUTY BILLINGS, HIS FAMILY
AND CO-WORKERS.

GOD BLESS...

PO ERNEST G. PENN
DEPT. OF VETERANS AFFAIRS POLICE

Saint Michael, heaven's glorious commissioner of police,who once so neatly and successfully cleared God's premisesof all its undesirables, look with kindly and professionaleyes on your earthly force.

Give us cool heads, stout hearts, and uncanny flair for investigation and wise judgment.

Make us the terror of burglars, the friend of children and law-abiding citizens, kind to strangers, polite to bores, strict with law-breakers and impervious to temptations.

You know, Saint Michael, from your own experiences with the devil, that the police officer's lot on earth is not always a happy one; but your sense of duty that so pleased God, your hard knocks that so surprised the devil, and your angelic self-control give us inspiration.

And when we lay down our night sticks, enroll us in your heavenly force, where we will be as proud to guard the throne of God as we have been to guard the city of all the people. Amen.

Sgt Israel
East Point Police Department, Ga