Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Justice for Isaac today although his murderer should've been convicted of 1st degree murder and the DA should've asked for the death penalty. I remember when Isaac was killed and you were so upset with the DA for not seeking the death penalty. Who would've known that a year later it would be you. So sad for both of you and so sad for his daughter and your son.

Love you

January 4, 2007

Jo Ann,
I wanted to send a message before now letting you know I was praying you would find some happiness this holiday, but I couldn't find the words. After reading your last message I know Larry is smiling down on you and Cody and thinking wow that women is my wife. How proud you are making him and I hope you feel that you are a strong and remarkable women. Cody is very lucky to have you he will continue to grow into a very happy, strong, health young man.
Jo Ann, my thoughts are always with you, Cody and your estended family.
I wish this New Year you find some peace and happiness.

January 4, 2007

Dearest Phyliss,
THANK YOU SO MUCH. I needed to read your words so desperately. I could truly feel you wrapping you arms around me with love, and comfort, and understanding. There are so few people that have any understanding of the marvelous love between a mother and her adult son. To have that taken away is beyond any understanding on this earth. I look at Larry's face and read your words and know he was loved beyond words. Honestly, I wanted to jump on a plane and come and see you and talk about our sons. We'll do that in Washington. Until then, Larry is always thought of with much, much love.

Linda R.
Matt's Mom always, always

Dearest Joanne,
You are so beautiful in your love for Larry and Cody. You know your family "out here" thinks of you with love and respect for how you are making your life go on for Cody. I'm so deeply sorry that Larry is not here to experience with you the unsurpassed joy of being a parent. Cody will know what true love is because of you when he grows up.
With love,
Linda R., always Matt's Mom

Linda Rittenhouse
Mother of Matthew Rittenhouse EOW 9/16/04

January 3, 2007

I would like to give my respects to you Officer Lasater, your entire family and all your friends. To thank him as a citizen for his heroic service and sacrice.

I lost my brother in the line of duty in April of 1995 too. I know the pain and greif - even after 11 years now, coming up on 12... it still hurts sometimes like it was yesterday.

I know you miss him greatly and please also know that my prayers are with you... That our Lord Jesus Christ would richly bless you with His grace and peace and that He would continue to strengthen you all through your great loss.

Again - my heart goes out to you and so do my support and great thanks...

Be with Jesus.

Pastor Bill Henry
Brother of Officer Robert (Bob) Joseph Henry, City of Newport Beach, CA. Killed in the line of duty April 13, 1995.

Bill Henry, Pastor
Brother of fallen officer Robert Joseph Henry, Newport Beach, CA PD -

January 2, 2007

I made it through Christmas. You would've loved seeing Cody play with all his new toys. He's really getting to be a big boy. I can't believe he'll be 18 months soon. I can't believe you've been gone 20 months. I'll never get used to life without you.

You would have been off for the first time for New Years this year. We would've been able to celebrate it for once. I've made some resolutions for 2007 and one of them is to try to figure out what to do with my life now. We had it all planned out but everything is completely different now and I have to accept that sad fact. I can't continue to be so down all the time...you wouldn't want me to be this way. I'm going to make a life for me and Cody this year. I want to travel with him and give him the experiences we would've given him together.

The trial has been delayed again until June 2007. I hope this is the last delay.

Love and miss you

January 1, 2007

Another year without you! Be with Joanne and your Mom as they indure another without you!!!

January 1, 2007

Dear Lasater Family,

As I read the most recent reflections on this page, I am reminded of what truly amazing people I have working for me. Bobbi Akans, Julie Barnes and Damian Jackson have left messages that make me proud to have them in my life. These individuals are truly unique and one of a kind. They fact that they continue to honor you and write to you shows how dedicated they are to our academy dedications...and that the fallen officers we memorialize for each class truly mean something to them. Each officer has been and forever will be a driving force in thier lives.

Bobbi is right, she does talk to you as she walks past you in the "Hall", she isn't the only one. Each night when I leave the academy, my last words are "Goodnight gentlemen, God Bless You and your families." I know it seems odd, but when you are leaving the office at midnight and you are the last one to leave, you can't help but walk down that hall and feel their presence, especially when each of them is looking right at you as you walk past.

It is also nice to see evidence that the Cadets who are honoring Larry leave messages and are truly inspired by him daily. It is amazing to see the transformation from day one and how far they have come and how much they are motivated by someone they will never know. Each one of them who has left messages are genuine individuals who truly mean every word they have written. Those cadets of Class 14 who have not written, I'm sure isn't for a lack of want. I think they just can't put their feelings into words or the words just won't come out right. Rest assured, Larry is a true hero in their eyes and will continue to be a part of their lives FOREVER!

Each academy class has a memorial award that is given to the cadet who emulates thier officer's attributes. I can remember last June when Damian and I were in San Francisco at meetings when we met one of Larry's academy training officers. When he spoke about Larry, he cried and what he told us about Larry solidified our decision to honor him. There needs to be more officers/people like him in this profession. As it stands right now, I already see a cadet in Class 14 who has made their mark and is right in line with Larry and the type of person he was. It will really take a lot for another cadet to change my mind. At this stage in the academy, 16 weeks to go, there isn't much anyone can do to change the stage they have already set for themselves. Personalities come out, genuine traits are noticed and my staff and I can pretty much tell who is the "real deal." I hope that your family will be able to make it to our graduation on April 26th, 2007 so Joanne and Cody can give this award to that person.

May you find comfort in knowing that you are in our hearts and prayers daily and that Larry is a true hero and inspiration to many...and he will be for the rest of our lives.

Lastly, Joanne and "Mom Lasater" your reflections truly show how much you both love Larry and you bring me to tears every time I read them. Joanne, I want to personally thank you for your reflection that you left for Katelyn Bessant. It was so genuine and she needs to hear from women like you who have walked in the shoes she will have to. God Bless you for reaching out to her.

With profound respect,

Shanon Dreyer, Supervisor
Palomar College Police Academy

January 1, 2007

My darling son

Our second holiday season without you. We try to stay strong for each other and have some semblance of an "ordinary" holiday season. Without question, I know that you would want your son to enjoy the same kinds of holidays that his parents did growing up. So we all try, yet there are welled up tears in our eyes and you are achingly missed each and every moment.

I hope that you always knew how much we all loved you. I believe that you did. The love that your family and close friends have for you is so strong that death cannot diminish it in any manner. Your spirit touches us and continues to guide us. Your life was such that you still lead by example.

How fortunate we were to be loved and cared for by you.
How anquished we are by your loss.

Loving you for eternity and living in your name

Mom

December 30, 2006

To the Lasater Family, Friends, and Brothers and Sisters of the Pittsburg PD,

The first reflection on here is always the toughest for me. Right now the Cadets of Class 14 are on a Christmas break and the hallways are quiet and calm. There is not a night that I don't walk by the Hall of Warriors and talk to you, Isaac and Tony. Your picture hangs proudly and the three of you are and will forever be known as TRUE HEROS! It is so bittersweet to know that with each new class brings to us a new Hero to add.......

I want your family and friends to know that you are touching so many lives and opening the young minds of the Class 14 Cadets. They have decorated their classroom with pictures and signs to honor you. Every time I hear, "Class 14 Pride is Forever" it gives me a chill because they are saying it in your honor. I am so thankful that your Family has allowed us to use you as their guide, inspiration and their Hero. Thank you so much!

I wish you all comfort for the New Year that is quickly approaching. I look forward to meeting your family in person when Class 14 graduates in just a few short months.

Larry, please continue to watch over us from above. From our region, we recently lost Officer Bessant. Much like you, he has left behind his wife, Katelyn and 2 month old baby, Wyatt. Please welcome Dan with open arms and show him the ropes!

With the Highest Respect,

R.Akans #1354 Escondido PD/Palomar College Police Academy

R.AKANS #1354
ESPD/PCPA

December 30, 2006

Lasater Family,

It has now been 7 months since I joined the academy. Your husband/father/friend to many has been a inspiration and motivator for me and our class. I want you (Lasater Family) to know that my heart and prayers are with you. There has not been a day that has gone by since I joined the academy that Larry Lasater has not touched my life. I wish to send my love and admiration for all he has done to help the citizens of Pittsburg and has continued to help us cadets in the academy.

Cadet Punchard
Palomar Police Academy
Class 14
*Pride Is Forever*

Cadet Anthony Punchard
Palomar Police Academy / Honored Memory

December 28, 2006

Dear Lasater Family,

My name is Taylor Gillis and I'm a Cadet in Class 14 and I just wanted to share with you my thoughts....

May the healing powers of our lord be the guiding light that gives you strength to get through each day.
May his hands bring warmth to you and your beautiful son and bring you comfort this holiday season and for days, months and years to come.
Larry’s memory, spirit and heart lives in all of us and helps us get through the each day in the academy.
He is a genuine hero and the legacy Larry left will shine in all of us forever.

In our thoughts and prayers always,

Cadet Taylor Gillis
Palomar College Police Academy Class 14

Cadet Taylor Gillis
PCPA Class 14

December 27, 2006

You and your family are in our thoughts always, to include during this holiday season.

When April 24th came around this year, I knew it was more than just another day (during SWAT "school"). As soon as I heard we were doing open field searches, my heart sunk, but then was charged with the memory of a WARRIOR who answered the call.
Watch over us as we protect our communities.

LPD Officer

December 26, 2006

Lasater Family and Friends,

I had the opportunity to tour the Palomar College in Escondido, near my old home at Camp Pendleton. The college had a class dedicated to Larry, along with photos and plaques, a touching gesture that brought me to tears- particularly since one photo was near my friend/co-worker Isaac Espinoza. I was there the night we lost Zak, I watched him...you are not alone. Please know that you are thought of often and prayers are recited on a regular basis for your family's strength and safety. Wishing a blessed holidays and new year, Semper Fi.

OFC. PATTY BROWN USMC
SFPD BAYVIEW MIDS

December 25, 2006

Class 14 has been working hard this year with you as their inspiration and they are in the home stretch now. I know that you are especially in their thoughts and prayers today...as you are with all of us in your law enforcement family. Sadly, a few more officers have joined you up there this week. I know that you will show them the way as you have proven to do with so many already. Thank you for watching over us, thank you for your service and your sacrifice. Merry Christmas.

JB #375
EPD / PCPA Staff

December 25, 2006

Dear JoAnn ~

I wanted you to know that my thoughts and prayers are with you as you endure yet another holiday without your wonderful husband. May you have a warm and blessed Christmas and may the New Year bring you hope, renewed faith and new beginnings.

Warmly ~
Carin E. Sollman
wife of Officer Jesse E. Sollman EOW 3/25/05

December 23, 2006

I went Christmas shopping today. It actually lifted my spirits a little bit because I bought presents for all our nephews and a bunch of stuff for Cody. I met Denise and the boys at the mall and seeing Nick, Daniel and Dominic on Santa's lap made me smile but at the same time I could feel the tears coming. I wanted to be there with you watching our kids on Santa's lap. We'll never have the chance to have a big family together. I wanted Cody to grow up with a brother or sister like we both did. I can't imagine life without my sisters and all I can hope is that he'll be close enough with his cousins that he'll feel like he has brothers.

We haven't been to the cemetery in a few days because Cody's been sick. I'm sure you think I'm crazy for going so often but it helps me. Since he's been sick, Cody is so thin. His little body looks like yours and since his face has thinned out he's looking more like you than me these days. He's feeling better now and he's acting like his old self. He was looking through the bedroom closet and found one of his Christmas presents and got so excited that I had to give it to him. I can't believe I couldn't even hide a gift from a 17 month old. He's been playing with the little police cars all day.

Love you

December 22, 2006

Lasater Family,
May God bring you comfort this holiday. Know that all of you are in my prayers and thoughts. My grandma just passed away almost a week ago on Dec.15th. A few weeks before she passed away I was able to share with her about the academy and Larry. I gave her a badge pin that we wear on our uniform in memory of Officer Lasater, and she was proud to have it, and I promised her that I would continue to make her proud. I find comfort in knowing that she is up there in Heaven with him watching over us. God Bless all of you this coming new year.

Cadet Rocha
Palomar Police Academy

December 21, 2006

This time of year must break your already broken heart. Joann, be strong and know that so many people keep you and your son in their thoughts and prayers. Best wishes to you in the New Year. Peace be with you in each passing day.
Larry, you're missed by so many. We'll meet up again some day. Until then - keep watch.

Jimmy Olmstead

December 21, 2006

MRS LASATER, MRS LOYA, AND CODY,
FROM MY FAMILY AND I, TO YOU AND YOURS, OUR BEST WISHES FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON.

OFFICER LASATER, NEVER FORGOTTEN.

JIM SWEENEY CIVILIAN NEW JERSEY
A FRIEND TO ALL PEACE OFFICERS

December 18, 2006

Larry -
Thinking of you and your family and praying God holds you all close. Keep them safe and mend their hearts.
Thank you for watching my back each day...

Officer Damian Jackson
Escondido PD / Palomar Police Academy

December 14, 2006

The entire family met at the cemetery yesterday. The kids each shared a memory of you. They have a lot of memories of your fun loving side. My boys talk a lot about memories of you playing basketball with them. The younger ones said such beautiful prayers to you. Then after everyone said their prayer or thought to you, we sent up the balloon to you. It never gets easier. We all miss you all the time. Cody is a blessing to our entire family. This Christmas will be as difficult as the last Christmas. I don't think Christmas will ever be the same for anyone in our family. So much was taken from so many people on April 23, 2005.......

Louise
sister-in-law

December 13, 2006

Yesterday was your thirty-seventh birthday. You were born at 9:04 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. Last night at 6:04 p.m. California time I sat beside your grave in solitude and remembered the joy you brought into my life when you were born. The night was dark and foggy and it seemed surreal. It seemed like yesterday that you came into my life. You and your brother James were such magnificant gifts to me, being a mother to the two of you has been a treasured experience beyond description that mere words can relay.

I find it so hard to understand why all our lives had to turn out this way.

It had always been our family tradition to put up our Christmas tree on your birthday. That continued until you
went away to college. James is still looking after his little brother by putting up a tree for you, only now it is at your grave. Your beautiful tree is trimmed in lights and garland. James, Jo Ann, Cody and I were there last night and then attended the candlelight remembrance night the Chapel was hosting coincidentally on your birthday. We placed notes to you in glass balls and hung them on the Chapel's tree as well.

You filled our every thought.

You have all our love forever throughout eternity. You are our beloved son, husband, father, and brother. You are our everything.

Love forever and a day,

Mom

December 13, 2006

We made it through what should've been your 37th birthday. Cody and I brought you flowers in the morning and I played the CD with the songs that remind me of you. We went back in the afternoon and our nephews Joseph, Vincent, Nick, Daniel and Dominic all said something about you. It was really touching.

Not much more to say other than I miss you and God how I'm dreading Christmas. I meant to put up a tree today but it'll have to wait until tomorrow. The thought of decorating the tree without you is so depressing.


Love you

December 13, 2006

Happy Birthday Larry....
You, Jo and Cody are in our thoughts and prayers everyday...



From:
Your Brothers and Sister at Antioch P.D

December 12, 2006

The embers glowed softly, and in their dim light,
I gazed round the room and I cherished the sight.
My wife was asleep, her head on my chest,
My daughter beside me, angelic in rest.
Outside the snow fell, a blanket of white,
Transforming the yard to a winter delight.

The sparkling lights in the tree I believe,
Completed the magic that was Christmas Eve.
My eyelids were heavy, my breathing was deep,
Secure and surrounded by love I would sleep.
In perfect contentment, or so it would seem,
So I slumbered, perhaps I started to dream.

The sound wasn't loud, and it wasn't too near,
But I opened my eyes when it tickled my ear.
Perhaps just a cough, I didn't quite know, Then the
sure sound of footsteps outside in the snow.
My soul gave a tremble, I struggled to hear,
And I crept to the door just to see who was near.

Standing out in the cold and the dark of the night,
A lone figure stood, his face weary and tight.
A soldier, I puzzled, some twenty years old,
Perhaps a Marine, huddled here in the cold.
Alone in the dark, he looked up and smiled,
Standing watch over me, and my wife and my child.

"What are you doing?" I asked without fear,
"Come in this moment, it's freezing out here!
Put down your pack, brush the snow from your sleeve,
You should be at home on a cold Christmas Eve!"
For barely a moment I saw his eyes shift,
Away from the cold and the snow blown in drifts..

To the window that danced with a warm fire's light
Then he sighed and he said "Its really all right,
I'm out here by choice. I'm here every night."
"It's my duty to stand at the front of the line,
That separates you from the darkest of times.

No one had to ask or beg or implore me,
I'm proud to stand here like my fathers before me.
My Gramps died at 'Pearl on a day in December,"
Then he sighed, "That's a Christmas 'Gram always remembers."
My dad stood his watch in the jungles of 'Nam',
And now it is my turn and so, here I am.

I've not seen my own son in more than a while,
But my wife sends me pictures, he's sure got her smile.
Then he bent and he carefully pulled from his bag,
The red, white, and blue... an American flag.
I can live through the cold and the being alone,
Away from my family, my house and my home.

I can stand at my post through the rain and the sleet,
I can sleep in a foxhole with little to eat.
I can carry the weight of killing another,
Or lay down my life with my sister and brother..
Who stand at the front against any and all,
To ensure for all time that this flag will not fall."

? So go back inside," he said, "harbor no fright,
Your family is waiting and I'll be all right."
"But isn't there something I can do, at the least,
"Give you money," I asked, "or prepare you a feast?
It seems all too little for all that you've done,
For being away from your wife and your son."

Then his eye welled a tear that held no regret,
"Just tell us you love us, and never forget.
To fight for our rights back at home while we're gone,
To stand your own watch, no matter how long.
For when we come home, either standing or dead,
To know you remember we fought and we bled.
Is payment enough, and with that we will trust,
That we mattered to you as you mattered to us."

December 12, 2006