Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

You are always remembered and remembered for being a good man.

Chris Zammit
USMC, Scout Platoon

September 17, 2013

Semper Fi Officer Lasater. As a former marine myself, it makes me proud to read of your service as a marine and peace officer. You are eternally loved by your brave mother who shows her love for the families of so many fallen officers on this site. RIP hero, you will never be forgotten.

Chief (RET) JA Millan
NCPS, Avery Dist. Campus

September 15, 2013

IN HONORE CASORUM
Gone, but not forgotten.

Sgt. T. J. Jones
Greaer Cleveland Transit Police Department, Ohio

August 19, 2013

Missing you! Only a few more days of summer vacation left. Cody had a great summer. Went on a couple of trips and spent a lot of time with his favorite cousin Dominic. He's so blessed that my sister lives right around the corner so Cody gets lots of cousin time with Dom and Daniel. He's excited that I'm going to the Spouses Retreat so he gets to stay with Dominic or my parents. Hoping the retreat will bring me some peace. Love you

JoAnn
Wife

August 18, 2013

A priest read this at the funeral of Colorado Deputy Jason Schwartz who was brutally murdered in 2001. I thought it was a good accounting of the responsibilities and sacrifices of law enforcement officers. Loving you forever and a day, Mom.

An Answer to Why

I am sometimes asked why anyone would voluntarily do what I do. There’s no simple reason. But, I can tell you that over the years I’ve learned there really are people out there that prey upon others; people who hurt, maim, or kill for little or no reason. People who would smash their way into your business, your livelihood; taking your tools, your money, and your way of life. People who would violate your home; leaving the broken bodies and crushed spirits of your family. Taking what they want, destroying the rest.

Who is there to stop them?

Twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. You can call for us. We are always here.

We feel your fear when you’re afraid. We feel your anguish when you cry out in pain. We feel your anger and your despair when you, or the ones you love, are violated. When you lay dying, we hold your hand and then bear the worst news possible to those that love you most. We wear the badges you have given us, but sometimes their weight is so, so heavy.

We have often been questioned or criticized, but we keep going. We have learned to tolerate the questioning of those who do not know, nor ever done, and the criticisms of those who could not, nor would not, do the things you have asked us to do. What else can we do? Quit? Turn our backs on our oaths? Or, turn our backs on you? NEVER! We will not abandon the people we love, or the ideas we hold most sacred and dear.

We have made solemn promises to stand against those who steal, hurt and kill. We have seen the broken child’s body, seen death and pain come in their worst, most horrible forms. We have seen eyes full of fear, questioning if the intruder will return. We have stared into the nightmare and we too have been afraid. We have been hurt and injured doing what we do. And, we have attended the funerals of the many that have fallen upholding their oaths and this line of duty. But, we continue to do what needs to be done; what you’ve asked us to do. Because, we wear the badges you have given us. These badges are symbols of our laws, of your faith in our society and of your faith in us. They are also symbols of our own convictions. Their spirit strengthens us, even as we gather the courage to turn the next corner and enter yet another dark alley.

Everyday parts and pieces are torn from us and left with the victims of our communities. Our hearts go out to them all. But, twenty-four hours a day, everyday, you can call for us. We will pull together the pieces that are left, and we will always be there when you need us.

Is there a better reason for us doing what we do than that we do it for you?

Phyllis Lasater Loya
mom of fallen Pittsburg (CA) officer Larry Lasater

August 9, 2013

There are some days when the grief is overwhelming and it feels like a tidal wave has enveloped me and that I am fighting to breathe. You are missed every minute of every day, but there are times that my heart aches with such an intensity that it physically hurts. This is one of those days.

Loving you forever and a day, Mom

Phyllis Lasater Loya
mom of fallen Pittsburg (CA) officer Larry Lasater

August 7, 2013

Lar-

I don't post here much, but I check in and read frequently. It's hard to get things out in words......

I have the opportunity to share you and Cody in class this week. I need to share something that represents my values. I was a young guy and a young cop when you passed...and didnt and couldnt have recongnized at the time how as each year passes you become more and more inspirational to me. Thank you! We all deal with your loss in different ways and at different speeds and as Cody grows and Luke grows I am constantly inspired to be a great father and role model. I think Cody enjoys coming to the station and getting to go through your SWAT gear (thats still in your locker) and cleaning all the items left in front of your locker over the years. He's getting older now, so I think I need to find something to add to the experience....I think I am gonna have him talk on the radio next time. Don't worry I wont have him pursue anyone down the railroad tracks...lol. Remember that one! You thought that crown vic was a tank!

Thinking about you more and more it seems....

your friend

Sgt Les Galer
Pittsburg Police Department

August 6, 2013

The LOVE within this memorial, is moving . . overwhelming . . so emotional and sincere. I have been a strong supporter of the ODMP since it's founding . . and have read literally thousands of reflections . . all are heart felt, however, there is that special "something" here. Everyone stay safe . . God bless and keep the Lancaster family.

PS And to Larry's Mom, Ms. Phyllis Loya, a special message of respect, honor and love for continually recognizing and honoring our nation's fallen officers, here, at the ODMP. I feel I can speak for our nation's 750,000 police when I write, "We know that you love us and we know that you care. . . and we appreciate it beyond expression." Stay safe,

Former Richmond, VA Police Officer
ATF Special Agent (Retired)

August 3, 2013

I thought about you a lot today on my drive home from COPS camp. Yesterday, I had the privilege of helping your son Cody catch his first fish. He was so excited! It made me angry that someone stole the chance of you seeing and sharing this with him, but I know that you were watching over and smiling with him. He is a good little boy and I will always remember this important day. You should know that being with your family made me come home and sit next to my boys and just watch them for an hour as they slept in their beds. Your sacrifice will forever make my bond stronger with my sons. Thank you for your service brother.

Shaun Deeney - Conservation Warden
Wisconsin DNR

August 2, 2013

Our son is 8! Hard to believe it. We miss you so much. Continue to watch over and guide Cody. Anyone who truly knows you well would know that Cody is the one you would be guiding. Love you

Jo Ann
Wife

July 24, 2013

I wish more than ever you were here today. Needing a friend in the worst way and not having you really sucks. I miss you, dear friend and would give anything to have just 5 more minutes. Until we meet again, watch over us and guide us.

a friend

July 7, 2013

Thank you Officer Lasater for your service not only to your community but to your Country . You shall never be forgotten. You are the heros that make this country a safer better place. Thank you my thoughts and prayers Shall be with your family and my gratefulness to you and all of the fallen. Who died in the line of duty for us all.

Marlene Dreschsler

July 3, 2013

The tragic loss of an officer, parent, child, partner, brother or sister is a such a life changing event and I can only imagine the true impact upon a family. Yet, I see a reflection left for every officer with a page listed on this site by Phillis Loya, your mother, without fail. So I post this as a thank you to you Phillis, for caring so much that you take that time to leave an important gift on each page for all to read. Your time is well spent as I know what you write means so much to those left behind. Thank you.

Doug Gist, Captain (ret) Washoe SO
Silver State National Peace Officers Museum, Virginia City, NV.

July 1, 2013

Larry,

Father's Day was hard as usual. I started it off with a mud run and I did every obstacle in honor of you. I'm sore but it was worth it. You would've loved doing these mud runs. Then Cody and I spent the day together and went out to dinner with friends. I wish you were here with us. Cody and I talk about you every day and always talk about what could've been. Cody says when he goes to heaven, he wants you and I to be the age I am now and he wants to be 7 again because so far it's been his favorite year. Sometimes he says he wants to go to heaven and be with you now but I tell him you don't want him there until he's an old man and has lived a full life. Then we can all be together as the family we were supposed to be. I love you

Jo Ann
Wife

June 18, 2013

Thank you Officer Lasater for giving all to protect us...You will always be in my prayers

Judy Hudson: Supporter

June 18, 2013

Missing you today and every day. How I wish you could be here celebrating this Father's Day with your son and wife. Cody is an absolutely amazing kid. He misses you so much but you are a constant presence in his life.

Loving you forever and a day.

Mom

Phyllis Lasater Loya
mom of fallen Pittsburg (CA) officer Larry Lasater

June 16, 2013

JoAnn,
I am sure your husband must be so proud of the ways you honor him.
I too feel that is the way to honor my husband by being there for our children and talking about memories of their daddy.
I like to read your post because I feel your love for your husband through your words and the way you carry on for your son.
May God bless you and Cody.
Your husband sounds like a special man. I am sure he will always be remembered.
Larry, thank you for your service.

Holley Orr
Wife of Kevin Orr EOW 11-22-06

June 14, 2013

Larry,
I honor you by spending quality time with our son and sharing memories of you. I know that is how you want to be honored. Missing you more and more.

JoAnn
Wife

June 13, 2013

As I read through your reflections as I often do, I am reminded that how we live our lives each day is a mirrored reflection of what we leave behind. Your Mom is so loving & compassionate toward others . Her kind words in the many post have brought comfort to so many people. Yor wife's dedication to your memory is so amazing. I know you are so proud of your son Cody and it sounds like your memory is being carried on through him. You Sir will always be remembered and loved. Thank you for your service and for being an awesome person.

Carolyn Scott
StepMom of Dep Jason Scott LCSD EOW 3/12/04

June 13, 2013

Your Mom is an incredibly strong woman who carries on your legacy with honor & love that is an inspiration to every person who post here. You will never be forgotten & your service will be valued forever!

Marshal Chris Di Gerolamo
Federal Air Marshal Service

June 12, 2013

Semper Fi Officer Lasater and my deepest thanks for your dedicated service to this Nation and to your community. You were a brave devil dog to the very end. Your Mother continues to spread the love she feels for you that lives on as ever strong, to the other fallen officers and their families, friends, colleagues and caring citizens. My dear Mother once told me and I do believe that as long as someone is loved and remembered, they never fully leave us. Mrs. Loya, you are an inspiration in courage and devotion, Tee family of the badge; officers past and present, family, friends and colleague, loves you. Do rest assured that your beloved son Larry will never be forgotten and he has many fellow honor guard members to help him on St. Peter's gate in Heaven. RIP Marine and thanks again.

Chief JA Millan (RET)-former USMC
NC Pub. Schools LE & Hoonah AK PD

June 5, 2013

First, I thank your and your family for the memory written on Ofc. Lasater by those that cherished him in life.
More than one in our family served and protected and my own grandfather is among the fallen officers this site remembers. Someone in your family posted on my grandfathers page and that has brought me to your page.
Memories and prayer seem to be all that is left for any of us once the officer is taken from us but we all hold onto those precious thoughts and your family and Larry are in those moments we share. God Bless you and yours.

Lt. Donn Hornberger
State of Illinois, DOC

May 31, 2013

Officer Lasater...I stumbled on this website today and found that last year on the anniversary of my fathers EOW your mother posted a reflection for my father. I am so touched by that gesture that I am now posting on your page. I am so sorry that you have a page at all but I do thank you for your service and ultimate sacrifice. I did not know you in life but I do know that you sacrificed every day that you rendered your service to us all. I am honored sir and I thank you.

I pray that your family and friends find peace and happiness as I'm sure that's what you want for them.

Suzanne Riley
Daughter of fallen Special Agent Richard Heath

May 26, 2013

We are back from Police Week and the Police Unity Tour. It was bittersweet as usual. Seeing Cody waiting for me as I rode in on Mothers Day was very emotional. Cody and Dominic had a great time in DC together and thanks to my sister, I was able to spend some time alone at the wall. I haven't been alone there in years. I needed that! I came home from DC a little depressed that it's over, but also came home with renewed hope that maybe this year will be the year for some positive changes. I am hoping when I ride in next year some things will have changed.
I sat by your name and watched while many people read Cody's note he left you. A few wiped tears, and a couple of people asked me if that was my son's note. That child has a way with words. This is the third year he's written a note and each year it gets more touching. 8 years and it is still hard to believe your name is on the wall. I miss you!
Love you

Jo Ann
Wife

May 18, 2013

My name is Sam Carello and I am a sergeant with the Troy, NY Police Department. I have been a police officer for over 33 years. Wednesday May 15, 2013, I meet your wife at the wall after reading your son's letter that was posted there. I sat down next to her and we talked. She is a beautiful and amazingly strong woman. Her devotion to you and your son is beyond description. I have attended the memorial for the past 13 years and I will make a point of coming to your panel from this point on. I hope someday I will meet your son as I have a 15 year old boy myself that makes me proud. From what I can tell, you need not worry about your boy. He is a fine young man and I am sure he will turn into something really great. Mrs Lasater if you read this and ever need anything or just to talk please feel free to contact me through the Troy NY Police Department. God bless you, your son, and Larry.

Sergeant Sam Carello
Troy NY Police Department

May 17, 2013