Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Hank-

It never ceases to amaze me all the wonderful things people are continually saying about you. You were so beyond an awesome person. Everybody looked up to you and you meant so much to so many people. We are still here in Florida and let me tell you it does not feel right being here without you. It has been very hard for me and I have lied awake crying. I hope you see how much I miss you and your kids miss you. We are ready to go home to Texas on Wednesday. I have missed everybody so much. It does not seem right not seeing or talking to Phyllis and Bill, Ernest and Tammy, Steve or the rest of the CRT team on a regular basis. Without all of these people in our lives I have no idea where we would be. They keep the kids and I going and are so very helpful to all our needs. I can call on anyone of them day or night and they are so loving and caring. You would be so proud of KayLeigh and Justin. They are growing bigger everyday and they are still the most awesome kids I could have ever asked for. There is not a day that goes by that they do not talk about you and long for you to still be here with us. It seems like we are never going to get use to the fact that you are really gone. When we get home we will be busy packing for our move to the new house. I hope you understand why we are doing it. It is not because we want to forget you or the memories we had with you in the house. Because we never will you do not have to ever worry about that. It is going to help us in our healing process. You would have loved this house and the land it sits on. Dad said that if you would have saw this house you would have sold ours in a heartbeat to move into this one. I could not be making it without Dad and Marie's support either. They have been so good to me and have helped me make so many decisions that are in the best interest of the kids and I. I miss you so much Hank. I can't even explain how much it hurts to not have you here with me or how much it hurts to know the kids have to grow up without their Dad in their lives. It is such a miserable feeling. I could never explain it to anyone. It is such an empty helpless feeling. I keep wondering why God did this to me. Why did he want you already? Why did he want me to raise our kids by ourself? Unfortunately, I will never know the answers because God is the only one with the plan. I have to believe that he knew what he was doing when he took you from all of us. However, it still does not make it any easier to live with. It is hard to swallow. I will never forget the cruise we got to take together this last September. I will cherish those 5 days with you forever as it was the last time we vacationed alone together without the kids. It was an awesome trip. We had so much fun. Thank you for the wonderful life you gave to the kids and I. You worked so hard for us to have everything. You wanted the kids to have more than you did growing up and you made sure they did. I love you Hank, I miss you Hank. I am still waiting for our talk. I need to know that you are ok. You have talked to so many other people already. I am longing to hear your voice one more time in my dreams. I love you sweetie.

Teresa Nava
Widow of Henry "Hank" Nava, Jr. EOW: 12-01-05

June 19, 2006

hey Hank~

i wish you where here to talk, i need your help so much and i miss you never much. Sorry i didn't write this sooner, but i never knew about this. Well i'm getting out of school next year ealry, go me!! But i wish you were here to see it, i know you're watching us but it's not the same without you. i haven't really went to see Tersa and the kids, its kinda hard cause it dosen't feel right without you teasing me about something or about Cesar. i miss it all, you're were like the only person that got me and treated me like i was really someone! i miss you Hank and love you so much! Please keep watch over all of us!!

Brittany Chanlder
Cousin of Hank Nava

June 19, 2006

Theresa and kids,
I am still amazed how strong you seem. I know Hank would be proud of all 3 of you. You are still in my prayers and always will be. Be strong and keep your head up.
love & prayers,
Sherry Lopez

Sherry Lopez
Fair Oaks C.O.P.

June 15, 2006

I didn't know Officer Nava, but I wish I had. You may be gone Hank, but you are by no means forgotten. Hooah!!! ~S~

1st Lt. Cory Collier
Civil Air Patrol - USAF Auxiliary

June 14, 2006

I went to high school with Hank in Round Rock, TX. We played baseball and football together for several years. I lost touch with him afterwards and I just discovered what happened.

Hank was always smiling or joking and was a pleasure to be around. Discovering what kind of adult he became makes me very proud to have known him. Looking at his picture up above, it seems like I never stopped knowing him.

I am very saddened by this tragic event. Please accept my most sincere condolences.

Hank, rest in peace buddy. You will be sorely missed by all who knew you. Especially those of us from the Fighting Dragons of 84.

Bobby Byars
Round Rock High School Class of 1984

June 9, 2006

Hank-

Tomorrow we leave for Florida. Our family vacation will not be the same this year without you there. Florida was your favorite place. The kids and I miss you so much. We have had some good news this week. We are moving! I can't believe it. We are moving to Burleson. The house is on almost an acre of land. It is so awesome. You would have absolutely loved it! Justin is going to have so much room to run around and be a true boy! He already wants us to build a tree house. It seems weird doing this all by myself though. I know this is going to be a positive move for the kids and I. It will be another chapter in our new journey in life without you. I am just so sorry you are not here with us anymore to enjoy it with us. Keep watch over KayLeigh she is really missing you more and more each day. I love you my sweetie. I miss you with all of my heart and more. I would do anything to get you back. This is all just so unfair.

Teresa Nava
Widow of Henry "Hank" Nava, Jr. EOW: 12-1-2005

June 7, 2006

God bless you and your family.

Mary
Fort Worth Police Applicant

June 5, 2006

To Hank: you and your team are the gold standard in this line of work. Thank you for having the guts and pure intestinal fortitude to relentlessly pursue cowards such as this one. Your the textbook definition of the word Warrior.

To NCRT and NPTRL: Thanks for always having our backs out here when things go south.

To Mrs. Nava: I pray always that the Lord wraps his comforting arms around you and your children everyday.

Matthew 5:9

Officer A. Young #108
Sansom Park Police Department

June 1, 2006

My father was a veteran of war. As I reflect on the meaning of Memorial Day, I'd like to say that the Nava family is in my prayers. I am a citizen of Tarrant County. Officer Nava gave his life in the line of duty for the preservation of peace and justice in our community, as surely as any member of the armed forces lays down his life for his country by putting his life on the line every day. He is a hero. My prayers are with him and with all officers who face that sacrifice every day that they are "just doing the job." May god protect and defend all of them.

Angie Fares

May 30, 2006

Hank
I just wanted you to know I am missing you today. The kids and I are at the beach. It just isn't the same without you. I long for you each and everyday. I still hate the thought that you are gone forever. it just seems so unfair. Everyday I am more and more amazed by everyones memories of you. Did you ever realize what people thought of you. I am often jealous at the stories because you gave so much at work and apparently youbwere worn out by the time you got home. I do love you so very much. Please keep the kids and I safe.

Teresa Nava
widow of Henry Nava, Jr. EOW: 12/1/05

May 28, 2006

God Bless you Teresa as you face the days ahead of you. I love all the Policemen in Fort Worth and pray for them daily. They put their lives on the line everyday, but they do it with dignity and never fail to have time to talk to the citizens and children. My NPO is Juan Aguilar and he is such a good officer and friend, never too busy to help when we need him. Hank did his final assignment and went to the place we all long to be. It is not final, becauser we will see him again soon. Love and prayers, Martha

Martha Baker
COP Captain of Sleepy Hollow

May 28, 2006

Well hank, happy birthday even tho you were not looking forward to being 40. I just want you to know that you would have beens so proud of your family in washington. The entire team was there and it was a very moving experience. I got to find out some very interesting things from teresa that I did not know about you and I wish that I would have known them prior to this because I would never let you live them down. Well just to let you know that your family is getting along and the team is still by their side.

Officer S.E. Myers #2984
Fort worth Police NCRT

May 28, 2006

I just happened to run across this website by accident. I know it was sign from God. I starting reading all the comments and started to cry. Teresa there are no words to express your loss. I cried when I saw you on TV. I thought about my husband. I could not have the strength you had to bear all this. You are a very strong woman. I understand you are strong for your kids but I just don't think I could be as strong as you in this type of situation. Gerard had the pleasure of knowing your husband. Gerard said he was a "true" officer. I realized it was his birthday when I read everyone's comments. I started to cry all over again. Teresa I did not have the honor of meeting you but one day I will love to meet you. I know you will get thru this because you have Hank looking over from heaven. Because of you I make sure to kiss Gerard everyday when he leaves. I love him very much and I can not imagine loosing my best friend because Gerard is my best friend just like Hank was to you. I wanted to share something that happened 2 days ago. Gerard received a new phone so I was busy saving all his numbers to his SIM card when I ran across Hank's number. I just froze when I saw it. I know you have all ot of people supporting you but if you ever need anything please do not hesitate to contact us because we will always be a family of the Fort Worth Police Department.

Patricia Gutierrez
wife of Officer Gerard Gutierrez

May 25, 2006

Hank,, I waited a couple days to write,,, Gwen and I went to Washington DC for the Police Memorial Day Ceremonies. We have been to the memorial before but never during Police Memorial week, and felt that we owed it to you and our other friends who have died in the line of duty to pay our respects with everyone else.The weekend was a time of happiness and sadness. I was moved by the speakers, by President Bush and the thousands of Police Officers and their families we met.It was a time of healing for us Hank as we said goodbye again.That day is now just a memory and Gwen and I will always remember you for your smile,, your enjoyment at work and the willingness to help! God Bless Hank,,,

Officer Thomas Wiederhold #1890
Fort Worth Police,Tx

May 23, 2006

Hank was, and still is, an inspiration to me. He displayed a very positive attitude and was a pleasure to be around. I miss him greatly and will never forget him.

Sgt. John J Perez
Fort Worth PD

May 22, 2006

P.O. Nava - I am applying to Fort Worth and hope to start the Academy in July. I am honored to follow in your footsteps which I can only hope to half-fill. You and all other Texas police officers are in my heart. My best wishes to your beautiful family and your fellow officers that knew and loved you and still do. I will be proud to be a Texas police officer and most importantly, a Fort Worth police officer.

Fox Luu
Former NYPD Auxiliary

May 21, 2006

Happy Birthday Hank, I spoke to you yesterday, I hope you heard me. You came and spoke to me in a dream in January, I want you to know, that I listened, what you told me had such a powerful message, not only to me, but to people that I tell about it. I can't wait to sit and talk with Teresa.
You continue to teach us from Heaven, life lessons of humility, and not to take our everyday lives for granted. The legacy that you've left behind is phenominal. You had such an impact on so many people, I don't think you ever realized or accepted how much you were loved.
I know how much you are missed by your wife, children, parents, and sisters. I can't imagine the pain that they feel everday, but we all have the memories of you to cherish. I didnt realize until your sister called and told me that you were shot, just how thankful I am that we had our talk in July. You and I were able to make peace with one another, to cry, laugh, and share our lives now. That was so important to where I am today! I am getting married in June, and you were a big part of letting that wall down. I thank you! It's comforting to know you're watching over us. Continue to take care of Teresa, Kayleigh, and Justin, laugh with them and keep them safe and warm when their sad. Forever young, happy birthday Hank!
Love your friend,
Julie

Julie Dalton
Friend

May 18, 2006

happy birthday hank! i wish that we could all celebrate a huge 40th for ya but just know we are thinking of you today and will every year as your birthday comes. you will never be forgotten. malarie has been keeping count to this day and ever since the funeral she has said we would go and take flowers to your grave but as the day has got closer and even today she told me it is too hard for her to go. when she is ready i will take her again. this is just so hard on all of us and i still cant believe it. i read teresas letters on here and it just makes me cry. i wish she didnt have to go threw this and i wish that there was something i could do to bring you back to your family. i know you are in a better place and i know you already did you time here making this a better place for everyone. you are one in a million and no one could ever fill your shoes. this just makes me realize just how short life can be and to live everyday like its your last because you just never know when the good lord is ready to call you home! rest in peace sweet one, we will all get to see you again someday! have a great birthday!
love- mary and mal

mary and malarie taylor

May 17, 2006

Daddy

Just wanted to tell you Happy 40th Birthday! We wish you were here to celebrate but, your celebrating upstairs this year. Justin and I miss you more than anything in the whole wide world.

We love you and miss you very much!

KayLeigh & Justin Nava

KayLeigh & Justin Nava
Children of Henry "Hank" Nava, Jr. EOW: 12-01-05

May 17, 2006

Hank-

Well here I am again writing to you. We just got back from DC today. Let me tell you how awesome it was. It was the most moving experience I have ever been involved with. It still does not feel right though. I have not accepted that you are gone. I still think this is all one big dream I am in. It felt weird sitting on the West Lawn of the Capital listening to President Bush speak and many others.There were 155 officers who sacrificed their life this past year. It was hard walking down the walkway with Ernest to place the flower in the wreath when they called your name. That sounded so final. Your name is on the memorial wall now. I also received the Metal of Honor. Your kids have so much to remember you by. Your Daughter finally got her wish of meeting the President. I just wish it wouldn't have been under these circumstances. We both got to hug him and get our picture with him. You should have seen her she was so excited and she couldn't hardly wait to hug him. You know how she is when she hugs you. The CRT Team was there with me. I can't tell you enough what an awesome group of guys and gal (Paula) you worked with. They were all honored to be there with me. I wouldn't have wanted it any other way. I am very thankful the City let them go. I think having them around me helps me still have a connection to you. Mabey that is good or mabey bad I don't know. But for now I need them in my life. You would have been proud of Ernest he was my escort and he was in full dress uniform waiting to walk KayLeigh and I to the wreath. Tomorrow would be you 40th birthday and oh how you were dreading that day. Your life stopped at 39 so you have no need to worry anymore about that dreadful number. I would still give anything in the world to have you back at home and in my arms and with the kids. I so don't want this to be real but when I dig deep in my heart I know it is and nothing is going to change it back. Just know I am very proud of you. I always was and I will always be. You were the best COP ever, you were the best Husband and the best Father. You were fair, you did your job well and people respected you for that.

I Love you with all of my heart and more. Think of the kids and I and watch over us from above. Keep us safe. Help me get through this. I need your strength right now. Most days I want to give up because it is so hard being a single parent. But I am doing the best I can to manage what is put in front of me.


Love Ya-

Teresa Nava
Widow of Henry "Hank" Nava, Jr. EOW: 12-1-05

May 16, 2006

Dear theresa I could not imagine the pain you and your children must be enduring. I think of this tragedy everytime my husband leaves for work I always let him know how much I love him and how proud I am of him for his and all men and women in law enforcement for their sacrifice's. I will never forget the night that my husband had called crying when they called him for the last time over the radio I had spent all that day before making ribbon's in support of you and hank and your children and all of their fellow officers, I had never thought I would be making mourning bands. which I did and I guess I never realized until It hit this close to home.My husband never really knew your husband but had run into him a few times and even said he had the honor of shaking his hand once. He said his smile would stick in his memory and again I am sooo sorry this has happened to you and your family and you will stay in my heart and prayer's . And I also cannot wait for the day you receive justice for this terrible crime that has been committed to your family....

Heather
an officer's wife

May 15, 2006

An Officers Prayer

Oh Lord please protect us
from the danger in our lives,
while protecting our neighbors,
our children and our wives.

Please comfort all the families
with Thy helping hand,
who have friends and loved ones
wearing badges throughout this land.

Please return them safely
back to their dwelling place,
and for those lives that are taken,
lead them through Heavens' Gates.

Oh Lord we pray to you
to help make this world a better place,
so that we can live in peace and love
not in anger and in hate.

Oh Lord watch over us
as we protect our fellow man
or walk our beat through Heaven,
to kiss the nail scarred hands.

Amen

Thank you Officer Nava and the Nava family for your dedication to each other and to the community in which you live and patrol. God bless you and your family and may you all know that we love and respect you with every ounce of our being!

jgb

John G. Baker
Westworth Police Department

May 11, 2006

Hank-

Wow! What a day today was. Chief Mendoza presented me with the Police Cross. What an awesome honor that is. It is the highest honor you can get Hank. Of course you had to sacrifice your own life to receive it. I am so sorry for that. I know there are no regrets on your part because you were doing what you loved to do and that was being a "COP" I hope you are watching all of this from the skies and seeing how very proud I am of you. Thank you for making the ultimate sacrifice for your family and your brothers in blue. No one will ever forget that Hank. We are leaving tomorrow for Washington, DC. I am a little nervous and scared. I would have never thought in a million years this would be me doing all of this with our kids. There will be tons of support there for me though. I miss you so very much Hank. Everyday it seems to get harder and harder for me. I think reality is finally setting in that you aren't coming home. That was hard for me to accept. Now the hard part is figuring out how to go on without you. I am forever proud of you. I love you forever and ever.

Teresa Nava
Widow of Henry "Hank" Nava, Jr.

May 10, 2006

Mrs Nava, I read your last reflection and cried for you.Hank must be so proud of you.I am sure he continues to be with you now and always.Stay strong.

Capt Ghilesphi, your reflection also touched my heart.I would love to be able to speak with you and will always regret that it is not possible.

May 3, 2006

Hank-

Today is 5 months from the day you died. Today hurts like every other day. Your daughter just cried her eyes out on my shoulder for you. She so desperately wants you back. I would do anything and give up everything if that was possible. I wish I could take all the pain away that the kids are feeling. I can deal with this. But for them to have to deal with this it is so unfair and the fact that I can't fix it for them is ten times worse. As parents we are suppose to be able to fix things. However, this one is much too big for me to fix. When I see your kids crying for you I can't hold back my tears. I try to stay strong for them but sometimes I just can't. Your Grand Prix looks awesome. I am very happy with my decision to donate the car to Beat The Heat. You would be so impressed with what Brian has done. What an awesome bunch of friends you had. You are truly missed by many. I miss you with all my heart. Though you are not here with me you will forever live in my heart. I can't wait for the day I can tell your killer what I think and how much he has hurt our family. I hope you are resting and having fun up on Heavens Streets. If anyone deserves a break it is you. You worked your Ass off to give the kids and I the best life you could give us. And Hank you did! I love you with all of my heart and more.

Teresa Nava
Widow of Henry "Hank" Nava, Jr.

May 1, 2006