California Highway Patrol, California
End of Watch Thursday, November 17, 2005
Reflections for Officer Andrew Todd Stevens
As it says in the Policeman's Prayer to St. Michael: And when we lay down our night stick, 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 men. Amen
Brother, you will walk with me on my beat as long as I am able. Your sacrifice will not be forgotten.
Deputy J. DeGennaro
Rutherford County Sheriff's Office(TN)
November 18, 2005
Less than a month ago, the officers of Woodland CHP erected the sign dedicating a part of the freeway to my husband who died there in 2001. And now, another officer has lost his life in that area. Its such a remote area, mainly farm country, it doesn't seem like a dangerous place; not like L.A. or the Bay Area. That's probably its main danger; it seems quiet and makes you forget that no traffic stop is "routine".
My deepest sympathy to Officer Stevens' wife and family, the Woodland Squad and all law enforcement officers everywhere who suffer the loss of this brother.
Linda Wagers
Surviving Spouse of Sgt Gary Wagers, CHP, EOW 3/15/01
November 18, 2005
To the family and friends of Officer Stevens and his fellow officers with CHP.
I was so saddened to hear about the brutal murder of Officer Stevens. He is the sixteenth officer to die in the line of duty in California this year. Our family extends our sincerest condolences on the grievous loss you have suffered. His valor and dedication will not be forgotten.
From reading the reflections about Andy and hearing the comments made on the news programs, it is obvious that Andy was a remarkable young man who was loved by many and well-respected by his peers and seniors alike.
I am also gratified to learn that an arrest was made earlier today, and hope that justice is rendered.
To his loved ones, may you be comforted by the care and support of your law enforcement family. When my own son was killed in the line of duty in April, the CHP was so kind to us...bringing us food in the hospital, waiting with us, providing us escorts home. I know the entire CHP will be with you each step of the difficult journey you are now. Other police survivors will be there for you too.
This reflection is sent with the utmost respect for the distinquished years of service Andy gave to his community and the citizens of California, and the supreme sacrifice he and his family made on November 17, 2005.
Phyllis Loya, mother of Larry Lasater,
Pittsburg PD, eow 4/24/05
November 18, 2005
"THE FINAL INSPECTION"
The policeman stood and faced God,
Which must always come to pass.
He hoped his shoes were shining,
Just as brightly as his brass.
"Step forward now, policeman.
How shall I deal with you?
Have you always turned the other cheek?
To my church have you been true?"
The policeman squared his shoulders and said,
"No lord, I guess I ain't,
Because those of us who carry badges
can't always be a saint."
I've had to work most Sundays,
and at times my talk was rough,
and sometimes I've been violent,
Because the streets are awfully tough.
But I never took a penny,
That wasn't mine to keep
Though I worked a lot of overtime
When the bills got just too steep.
And I never passed a cry for help,
Though at time I shook with fear.
And sometimes, God forgive me,
I've wept unmanly tears.
I know I don't deserve a place
Among the people here.
They never wanted me around
Except to calm their fear.
If you've a place for me here, Lord,
It needn't be so grand.
I never expected or had too much,
But if you don't I'll understand.
There was a silence all around the throne
Where the saints had often trod.
As the policeman waited quietly,
For the judgement of his god.
"Step forward now, policeman,
You've born your burdens well.
Come walk a beat on Heaven's streets,
You've done your time in hell
CHP EXPLORER
CHP
November 18, 2005
To Andy's wife and family, may the Words from Isaiah 9:6 provide you with the comfort to know that Andy is established as God's Governing Authority forever...."For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end, upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, to order it and establish it with judgment and justice from that time forward and forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.
God Bless You! In Jesus Holy and Precious Name, Cpl. Heckers
Corporal Stacey Heckers
Montebello Police Dept.
November 18, 2005
Officer Stevens, rest in peace sir, the weak coward was caught early this morning. We'll take it from here, brother.
LBPD
November 18, 2005
Andy was a friend, a wealth of knowledge and just one of those rare persons that you wanted to be around. He would always have a moment to say hello and see how you were doing. Andy took the task of keeping our roads safe from unsafe big rigs and loads. He was a professional and a polite man both on and off the job.
To our brothers and sisters in the CHP and the Woodland Office specific, my heart goes out to you. To Andy's wife, you will always be in our family and in our hearts.
God Speed Brother, I will catch the next "cup" with you soon....
Motor Officer R. Rifredi
Davis PD
November 18, 2005
Our thoughts and prayers go out the officer Stevens wife and family. May God grant you peace during this difficult time.
November 18, 2005
Officer Stevens, Your duty here on earth is done. Now you take on the duty of looking over your partners, family and friends for all eternity. God bless you and your family. Our thoughts and prayers will always be with you and them.
Captain Fabian Lizarraga
Los Angeles Police Department
November 18, 2005
Dearest Family members of Officer Stevens and to the California Highway Patrol:
My family sends our heartfelt condolences for your catastrophic loss. We are stricken, sick with grief and dread as we know what you are feeling and what you must face. We cry with you. There are NO WORDS. We send all our love and support to all of you, and we thank Officer Stevens for his heroic service. His loss in incalculable.
Respectfully,
Carmen Stevenson
Sister of Sergeant Howard King Stevenson
EOW January 9, 2005
November 18, 2005
Officer Stevens was taken bodilly from his family and friends, but he'll never be taken spiritually. He'll always be with his family, his WHOLE family.
God Bless and Rest in Peace.
Ptl. Jim Leahy Jr.
Harvard University Police Dept.
November 18, 2005
My prayers go out to the family. May god bless you.
Sgt. Rudy Alaniz
LAPD
November 18, 2005
I am saddened by the violence that took the life of such a fine individual. The price of liberty is great indeed. God bless you all. Your sacrifice is remembered.
Commander Dean Nyhart
Arizona Department of Public Safety
November 18, 2005
as a traffic enforcement officer I know the dangers that every cop faces when he make a trffic stop. you are now in heaven rest in peace my brother officer. thank you for your heroic service we'll take over now.
POLICE OFFICER RENE SANCHEZ
BOSTON POLICE DEPARTMENT, BOSTON MA.
November 18, 2005
Mrs. Stevens, my deepest symathy for your loss. Officer Stevens' family, friends and co-workers are in my thoughts and prayers.
Ronda Campton
Marysville Police Volunteer
November 18, 2005
“REMEMBER ME”
Law enforcement officers are, indeed, a special breed of people. Ask anyone on the street and they will tell you that they would not have our jobs for anything in the world. It takes something special to do what we do and at the same time be able to even contemplate retirement. We try to be optimists. Unfortunately, there are a few of us who will never make that date with retirement. By the very nature of our job, we are at risk everyday of losing our lives, either at the hand of some deranged individual or in some other situation that we, by virtue of our occupation, may be unable to avoid. Some people have recognized the hazardous duties we involve ourselves in, the risks we take, and the pride we take in accomplishing that job. There is National Law Enforcement Week, dedicated to us who gladly accept the responsibility of protecting the citizens in our respective jurisdictions. National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Day is dedicated to those who gave their lives in the line of duty. These are but a two examples of remembrances specifically for law enforcement personnel. Remembrances that come but once a year. We should remind fellow officers of another type of remembrance, one that will last a lifetime. Sooner or later, a doctor will pronounce us dead. It is inevitable. Regardless of whatever happens, death is the end we will all have to face.
“IT IS IN DEATH THAT WE CAN LIVE FOREVER”
Author Unknown
Jim Moore
New Orleans P.D., Retired
November 18, 2005
My prayers and thoughts are with Officer's Stevens family and partners. May you remain strong in during this traumatic and difficult time. May God and the angels watch and support you.
Sergeant Adolfo Godinez
Los Angeles Police Department
November 18, 2005
I would like to express my deepest condolences to Officer Stevens' family and the California Highway Patrol. My son, Jonathan, was killed in the line of duty only 6 months ago, so I know only too well what y'all are going through. You are in my thoughts and prayers. May God strengthen and comfort your family.
Carol Parker, Mother of
Lance Corporal Jonathan W. Parker
South Carolina Highway Patrol
E0W: May 16, 2005
Carol Parker
Mother of Trooper Jonathan W. Parker
November 18, 2005
May you rest in peace. On behalf of myself and my fellow NYPD brothers and sisters: God bless
PO Burchard
NYPD
November 18, 2005
We just lost one of our own officers on October 08, 2005, Officer Mike Saffran. I am so sorry to see yet another family ripped apart, another department left with a huge loss and all the tears that will be shed as you try to get through this horrible time in your lives. Know that you are always in our prayers on the east coast. We may have never met, but you were still my brother in blue. Rest in peace, we have the watch now.
Officer Faith Gollob
Chesapeake Police Department
November 18, 2005
God Bless Officer Stevens family and the California Highway Patrol.
Fallan But Never Forgotten.
Katy Laurie Daughter of Officer
Nathan Laurie E-O-W 7-29-2004
November 18, 2005
To Officer Stevens family and co-workers let me say how very sorry I am for your loss. Having lost a fellow Officer recently, Ofc. Larry Cox EOW4-21-05 your brothers and sisters feel your pain.
Brother Stevens, your brothers and sisters will take the watch from here, may you walk the beat in heaven knowing that your brothers and sisters will close ranks, step forward, and carry on in your memory.
Rest in peace Hero.
Officer Eric McKee
Chillicothe PD-Chillicothe, Ohio
November 18, 2005
God Bless You. This cowardly attack will not go unpunished, your memory will live on.
AR
November 18, 2005
Our sincere condolences to the family, friends and coworkers of Officer Andy Stevens. May God comfort you all and may we never forget the supreme sacrifice of this fine young American.....Randy and Sharon Keenan
SGT. RANDY KEENAN /Ret.
ALAMEDA CALIF. POLICE DEPT.
November 18, 2005
OFFICER STEVENS MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.REST IN GOD PEACE.
GILBERT DANIEL
November 18, 2005
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