Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Marissa,
We continue to pray for you and Malia, best of luck in the days ahead. Bryan set an example that all officer's should follow and you and your family will always have our full support.

Deputy Brian Smith
Union County (Ohio) Sheriff's Office

September 13, 2005

Bryan,

I read the reflections left here often, because I don't want to forget you or what your life stood for. I recently met your friends and family. They are a wonderful group of people. I know this memorial is about your memory, but, Bryan I want to tell you, I can see why you chose Marissa to marry. She has such integrity and she is a wonderful mommy to Malia. Malia will never ever doubt how much you love her. Marissa has made me see what a wonderful and caring person you are. And Malia, well she is so cute. She is a very smart little girl. Her eyes sparkle just like yours. She will turn the tv off or take a toy hammer and hit something, then she turns to me and laughs, knowing full well she wasn't suppose to be doing it. I can't help but Giggle at her. At only 14 months, she sure can talk. Sometimes she is very quiet and all of a sudden she is repeating something another child is saying. But the funny thing is she mimics their voice.
Out of concern, sometimes I ask Marissa too much if she is ok, knowing, that at times, her life may suck, on a bad day. She puts Malia first, just like I know you put them first. That says so much about the wonderful type of person Marissa is.
Bryan I think about you often, and I am sad to say, I never really knew you on a personal level, except through Marissa. Please know that your beautiful, wonderful, smart little girl, is very well taken care of.

September 13, 2005

AMAZING GRACE: The Policeman's Tribute

A man in blue has lost his life
in service of the law.
The love that makes this sacrifice
is the greatest love of all.

A police man was killed today,
the reason why I cannot say.
I don't know why he had to die.
The man in blue died for me and you;
we must remember him too.

Flags fly low, let us bow in prayer
for fallen police men everywhere;
and remember this:
that they are missed.
The badge burns bright like an evening star free from a world of war

I just wanted to stay I am sorry for your lost. I also lost my best friend Adam R Fleshner e.o.w 01/13/03 just know that god only takes the best!!

May the lord keep watch between you and me when we are away from each other.' Gen.31:49

Holly Spikes
Charlton County S.O

September 12, 2005

Bryan-

Yesterday was Marcie and Darren's wedding. I wasn't sure how I would hold together, but made it through. They are such a perfect couple and they deserve the happiness they have found in each other.

Standing up there during the ceremony, I had flashbacks of our own, as if it were just yesterday. We all still remember how you swayed back and forth when the pastor was talking, and how you couldn't hold back the tears when it was time for you to recite your vows. Afterwards, everyone commented on what a sweet, sentimental man you were. They were right. I can't wait until Malia is old enough to see the video of the ceremony.

There is a photo of you in your tuxedo on Malia's dresser. It's one of my favorite pictures of you. Because I wanted it to match her bedroom, it's in a pink matted frame, which is kind of funny for such a manly photo, but it is so sweet. She can see her Daddy every morning.

This afternoon, my parents are taking Malia to the All-Horse Parade in Delaware. Bry, I can't wait until she is old enough to start riding. You and I had many, many disagreements on the practicality of owning a horse when we lived in the city, but you finally gave in because you knew I loved it. I have a feeling Malia is going to love it, too. She got to ride a pony last month at the Hartford Fair and was not too happy when she had to get off.

Bry, you would be cracking up at her behavior now. I know you were able to catch small glimpses of her personality in your short time together, but we are seeing the real deal now. She is so funny when she can't figure something out, or when one of the dogs runs off with one of her toys. Malia has very little patience and is so headstrong. She is so independent and wants to walk everywhere. She wants nothing to do with the stroller or wagon anymore and likes to walk around the mall like she owns the place. That little girl doesn't know a stranger and is so outgoing and likes to entertain everyone. All efforts to childproof the house have pretty much been abandoned - she figures out EVERYTHING! You would laugh so hard watching her effortlessly remove the childproof latches from the cabinets and then smacking the dogs with them. She smacks them on the snout and says "BAD!"

Bryan, you and I were never very traditionally religious, and I'm still trying to read about different interpretations of the afterlife. What I hope for the most is that you are able to see Malia right now, and see the little person she is becoming.
If I knew that were true, then it would be so much easier to be at peace.

I read an article about death and dying that was written by Dr. Phil. Yeah, I know, you thought he was funny, but he still is a licensed psychologist and a PhD. The crux of the article was that it is not a betrayal of the person you lost or a betrayal of your memory for them to give yourself permission to move on and let life be about the living. The article also says that the old saying "Time heals everything" is a bunch of crap. Instead, he suggests that it's what you do with that time that counts - celebrating your time together instead of focusing on death and loss. It made alot of sense to me.

We love you and miss you.

Marissa
DCSO

September 11, 2005

HURST,

Today is 9-11. I think about all the firefighters and police officers who gave their lives to save others, just doing their jobs because that's what they loved to do.

So, naturally I think about you and how you saved others also.

Still missing you and thinking about you every single day even though I don't write on here anymore.

On a brighter note, we're having a girl! Tracy picked out Rebekah Lynne and she's due December 30th.

Look out for us all.

Semper Fi,

Brandon

Brandon C. Walton
Toledo, OH

September 11, 2005

Gumper,

We're gonna need your help tomorrow brother. Kaz and I and a couple of your boys will be by tomorrow morning to salute you with a couple cold ones. It's going to be hard to go to the game without you.

Love You - Go Buckeyes!!

O

Donnie Oliverio
CPD

September 10, 2005

Marissa I do not know you, but may God bless you and continue to do so during this time. Once again NEVER forget you are in everyones prayers and upon there minds. BE SAFE

September 1, 2005

I was just reading yet another one who will join you, Melissa and Larry. I thought of you while reading reflections left for the gentleman who lost his life protecting just yesterday.Even though I only know of you through other officers and their friends..I take at heart what you all do. I have/had family n friends also in law enforcement. I too thought of being on the road myself when I complete my degree in criminal justice. You are in our thoughts still and always will.

Westerville Ohio

August 30, 2005

Bryan-

It's been a long time since I've written. I always want to but I never know exactly what to share and what not to. Sara does it so easily, sharing so many details of her life and how she is feeling. Sometimes I wish I was able to do the same.

So much has happened in the past few months. We celebrated Malia's first birthday with a big party at the house. We rented a huge tent and this inflatable trampoline - all of the kids had so much fun. For many, it was the first time we had all gotten together since your birthday graveside memorial and I could tell it was difficult for some. I know it's hard for some people to see the beginning of a new life that Malia and I have established for ourselves. I understand that, but at the same time, I will not be made to feel guilty about wanting to live a full and happy life. I sometimes feel as if people want me to see me cry, want me to feel helpless and alone, unable to function. The reality is that with a daughter to raise on my own, a full time job, and a household to run...there just isn't time to feel sorry for myself. It serves no purpose for me and it certainly isn't healthy for Malia.

With Marcie and Darren's wedding fast approaching, I've been thinking a lot about our own. That was the best damn party ever! I still hear stories about how people felt the next morning :) In your memory, they are going to ride in your mustang on their wedding day. I know that would make you proud. Speaking of the mustang, Donnie is treating it like a baby. I've never seen someone handle and care for a car so diligently. As I knew her would, he looks out for Malia and I in every way. He is one of my constant supporters and assures me that I am doing a good job. It's strange that I never got to know him so well until after you left us. I now know why you two were best friends. He cares about others and would give the shirt off his back - the same way you did.

Bryan, we love you and miss you. Pray for me to make the right decisions in this upcoming legal battle. It looks like accountability will finally be held.

Love,
Marissa

Marissa
DCSO

August 28, 2005

Bryan,

Only 2 weeks til the wedding...it's getting close! i'm bummed you won't be with us, but you will be in spirit...partying like i partied at your wedding! :) Marissa and Donnie are letting us use your mustang for our special day transportation...we all think it's a great way to honor you and hope you agree!

Sassy

August 26, 2005

semper fidelis: Always faithful

That was you, Bryan.

August 26, 2005

Marissa,
You are a strong, smart, beautiful, woman. Never question that. Hold your head high and know that Bryan would be so proud of you. Not many people have gone through what you have...yet they think they know what you should do. Stay strong, but also let yourself lean on others when you need it. Those who judge you are weak. Know that those who care love you and will be there for you and support you forever. We love you.

August 23, 2005

if you lose your way or are confused . . . ask yourself 'What Would Bryan Say?' then listen.

the right choice will honor Bryan's memory. i wish you well.

August 21, 2005

Hey brother, it's been awhile. Just wanted to say I'm sorry you wont be celebrating with me next week when I get married. However, Donnie, myself and the rest of the boys will have our own personal toast in your honor. There isnt a day that goes by I dont think about you. Your picture is pinned to my cruiser visor and it's the first thing I see. It's almost like my guardian angel pendant that watches over me.

Dawn has gotten to know this Memorial Page and checks it often. It makes me proud that she has taken a serious interest in our Brotherhood. Although it saddens me that your death has to make us all see how precious life is. It has made me appreciate what her and I are about to share even more. I only pray that you'll be able to continue to protect us, so that one of our own doesnt have to suffer again.

Everytime I go to the OC I sit facing your memorial. Allot of times I have to go by myself or with one of the boys. It is hard sometimes to sit there and watch everyone so festive and not break down. No one understands the tribute and reality of what we've seen and done. Again brother, continue to watch over us as we watch over yours!! I'll write you in a few weeks when the BUCKS stomp Miami (OH). I wish you could be there to tailgate with me.

Andy Ward
CPD

August 18, 2005

I never understood my brothers, who are all police officers, when they referred to other law enforcement officers as "brothers" and "sisters". It was not until I became an officer myself and I realized that we have to act as a whole rather than an individual itself. Every time I hear about a fallen brother or sister, it makes me angry, in which it helps me to remain aware and proactive. My prayers and respects are to the friends and family of Officer Bryan Hurst. Like I was told in the police academy there is a bullet with each of our names on it. I hope mine is hung on my wall but if it isn't I want all my brothers and sisters to not have any sarrow for me. I love what I do and I accepted that loving what I do may cost me my life but if the unfortunately were to happen I am not leaving without a FIGHT. Remember brothers and sisters to watch out for each other and spend time with family like there is not going to be a tomorrow.

Marina Rosalez, Sheriff Deputy
Galveston County Sheriff's Office, Texas

August 18, 2005

I never understood my brothers, who are all police officers, when they referred to other law enforcement officers as "brothers" and "sisters". It was not until I became an officer myself and I realized that we have to act as a whole rather than an individual itself. Every time I hear about a fallen brother or sister, it makes me angry, in which it helps me to remain aware and proactive. My prayers and respects are to the friends and family of Officer Bryan Hurst. Like I was told in the police academy there is a bullet with each of our names on it. I hope mine is hung on my wall but if it isn't I want all my brothers and sisters to not have any sarrow for me. I love what I do and I accepted that loving what I do may cost me my life but if the unfortunately were to happen I am not leaving without a FIGHT. Remember brothers and sisters to watch out for each other and spend time with family like there is not going to be a tomorrow.

Marina Rosalez, Sheriff Deputy
Galveston County Sheriff's Office, Texas

August 18, 2005

Keep things safe for all of our loved ones that are with God. You would be proud of the display that is on the wall at the Outside Corner. Let us never remember who we are and what we stand for...

Bryan

August 18, 2005

Let's not lose sight of this memorial. This is to honor Bryan's friendships, the memories people have made with him, and to keep him close to us.
We all come to this sight to remember Bryan in some way. Let's focus on the important. This could be a wonderful tribute for Malia to have as she grows. Our personal opinions about how others conduct themselves have no place here. We all mourn Bryan, and that's what matters.

August 15, 2005

To the family and friends of Officer Hurst, and to his law enforcement family of Columbus: I wanted to extend my deepest condolences on the grevious loss you suffered when Bryan was brutally murdered. It is heart wrenching to know that another young child has lost their father, but I am sure that his daughter will learn to know her father through the memories of others. Bryan displayed much courage and valor, especially when he was able to return fire after being wounded. His bravery that day saved lives, and he is a true hero. In reading the reflections about Bryan, I have learned that he was a Marine veteran. Our family lost our beloved Larry Lasater of the Pittsburg, CA Police Department when he was shot on 4/23/05 during a foot pursuit of two bank robbers. Like Bryan, Larry was also a Marine. Prior to going into law enforcement, Larry was a tank commander. His last active duty assignment as a Marine Captain was at the training depot in San Diego. Bryan and Larry were not just brothers in blue, but brothers in green as well. Like Bryan, Larry leaves a loving wife and child although Larry's son was born three months after he was killed. How very sad that we lose the precious lives of such splendid men and women who die in the line of duty at the hands of uncaring, malicious criminals. The common thread in the minds of these scumbags is that they would rather shoot an officer in cold blood in an attempt to avoid going to jail for crimes each of them chose to commit. Even more ironic is that a lot of the defendants who murder officers wouldn't actually do that much time for the crimes they committed, but will shoot to kill to evade being arrested. I hope and pray that justice is served as the victims deserve no less than the full measure of justice for the supreme sacrifice Bryan and his family have made. This reflection is sent with the utmost respect for the service Bryan gave to man, community and country.

Phyllis Loya, mother of Larry Lasater,
Pittsburg PD eow 4/24/05

phyllis Loya, mother of fallen officer

August 13, 2005

MJ-12B

265/282

O-123B

August 12, 2005

Moving on and being at peace is not necessarily a bad thing for those who chose to heal by taking that path.

August 12, 2005

On August 8th, 2000 our lives were changed forever, when our loved one, Officer Bob Stanze was taken from us. He had an 18 mos old son and had just learned that his wife was pregnant with twins. I look through these pages to find solace and sometimes just to feel closer to others who are experiencing the overwhelming loss we have felt. I want to express my condolences for your tragic, unexplainable loss. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. Keep his wonderful memory alive in all you say and do. God bless you all!

Family of Officer Robert Stanze
EOW 8/8/00

August 10, 2005

Bryan, you were on my mind alot today for some reason, not that I don't think of you every day, but today it was different. I missed putting flowers at the bank on the 6th, it felt weird not going. I often just drive there and sit for a few moments and then leave. I guess its my weird way of staying in touch with you. It has been tough at times, seeing some move on and others so at peace with things, I will never be at peace, you were taken from your child. Its hard to imagine how some have no ideals and no concience I guess, but everything comes full circle as I hope it does with your death. Justice will be done too all. Keep watching over us all.
Our HERO!

August 9, 2005

Rest in Peace Brother, Your sacrifice will not go unnoticed!!!

SGT. Mike Munoz
Perrysburg Township Police

August 4, 2005

Somebody killed a policeman today,
and a part of America died.
A piece 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 mother must work for her kids,
and spend many long, lonely nights.
The beat that he walked was a battle field too,
just as if he'd 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 new rookie's side.
He answered the call, of himself gave his all,
and a part of America died.


"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the sons of God."

August 2, 2005