Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Hey hon. Well, it has been almost 2 months since you were unjustly ripped from our lives. 2 months of pure hell. I still feel like I am in a total haze. Like I am outside of my life looking in. People keep saying it will get better. That time heals wounds. Well, that time isn’t happening for me. I don’t feel any better than I did 2 months ago! I miss you more and more every day. Most days I don’t know how to go on. I just do.

Thank you for the strength last week to make it through the prelim. I still don’t know how I did it, but I did – for you. I will continue on for you and the boys! Thanks also for helping your brothers in blue. I know it was not easy for them either. It was hard to hear many things from that night. I can’t even imagine what the trial will be like!

We went to NY this weekend to see the Yankees. The kids seemed to have a good time. It was so hard for me though. I couldn’t wait to come home. Too many reminders from when we were there last year. It was just too much! I guess you were glad to see we stayed in a much better hotel than last time (ha-ha)!! Your brothers in the NYPD were really great to us!!

Sorry you couldn’t be here physically to see Jared’s game on Sunday. I know you were there. I told him you would have been so proud. He had such a phenomenal game!! He really needed that! Thanks!

Chuck came up to see us this weekend. It was nice, but I’m sure it was as hard for him as it was for us. It was just not the same. Nothing will ever be the same!!

Still loving you and missing you more and more each day!!

Love forever,

Trish

Trish Wertz
Loving Wife

October 2, 2006

We put on this uniform every day, just getting ready for another day at work. Every time we leave, we know we may not come home. People dont and never understand this job. We tell our wives and children good bye, and never know if it really is good bye. That alone is the job of a hero.
You made the ultimate sacrifice for anyone to make. You gave your life, so innocent, naive people can sleep at night. No one understands what we do, or why we do it. Why do you put our lives on the line everyday?
For people like you. I thank you for the sacrafice you made, and I will continue to do my job every day and continue to fight for this cause that all of our brothers in blue will never lose faith in.
My prayers will be with you and your family forever.

Patrol Officer
Winter Haven PD, WH Florida

October 2, 2006

Scott, (OUR HERO)

Several weeks ago without warning, God came and took you away. Part of us went with you. We'll never bee the same. Our wedding in St Lucia was great, even though it was tough for the both of us to look over to see only one of out Best Men standing with us. I know you were there ever step of the way. Chris and I miss you so much. You gave us years of happiness to treasure and we THANK YOU for that. Trish, Jared and Josh will be find. Trish is an amazing woman and she will always have the support from friends, family, and the support from your brothers/sisters in blue. Though your smile is gone you will always be in our hearts. We miss you and Love you. Until we meet again.

Veronica Jenkins
Friend/Reading Police Dispatcher

September 27, 2006

Dear Scott,

I think of you everyday and my prayers are with you and your family. I just keep replaying in my mind walking past you that Wednesday before with your hat on and that smile you always had on your face. You were always a pleasant person to work with and always had something funny to say. You will be sadly missed.

To the RPD, I know you lost a good friend/brother, it's always a pleasure to work with members from your department. My prayers are with you, too.

RIP Scott.

Becky Mooney
Official Court Reporter

September 26, 2006

Scott

It has been almost two months and I can only say that my wife and I think of you everyday. In those two months we had the wedding in St. Lucia which you were to be there for. We missed you alot. We all did have a great time but something was missing. It might have been that distinctive voice saying no its not time to go to bed yet, lets have another one. I wish I could hear that one more time, although it often got some of us in trouble when we got home. We also had the softball tournament. Jared played on our team for three games and he was definately the MVP of our team. By the way Reber made one of those diving catches you enjoyed watching him make on many occassions. I just want to again say THANK YOU to Leisy and all the volunteers for that day. Despite the rain it was a great day. Oh by the way we were 3 and 0 until we had about a four hour break and we did what you would have done Scott. We visited the parking lot for a few. This weekend Josh drew one of the drunk pictures and of course it was about that day with my name on it. I went to the preliminary hearing and you would have been proud of your partner. This time justice will be served.

Off. Matthew Mish
RPD

September 26, 2006

To all of the people who love and think of Scott everyday!

Tomorrow is the preliminary hearing and after reading all of these reflections I know Scott had the most amazing friends and family. It will not be an easy day but we have a job to do just as Scott died doing his.

Continue to do what you have been doing and you will get through this with great resolve and incredible strength. Band together as you have, and stand up tall for Scott. He fought for all of us and now it is our turn to fight for him.

Scott will be in that courtroom proud to know each and everyone of you. Pack it in and let CR know that the worse thing that could happen to him would be to be released because no one person can come up against a group of faithful believers.

Trish, I know you are angry with God right now but don't be. He has a plan for all of us and even though we may not know what the plan is, he does still nonetheless have one. Scott served his God well and it was time to go home. You will see one another again but not too soon. Jared and Joshua need you now. They need to be able to look at you and follow the wonderful example you have been and continue to be. There is no doubt in Scott's mind that you can do this. There is no doubt in mine.

Of all the people in this world, God gave this to you to handle and he does not give more than a person can handle. This will not break you, because you won't allow it.

I have never met you but I think of you and the boys all of the time. My children know about Scott, you and the boys and we talk about the sacrifice your family has made a lot. I want them to continue to grow up respecting the uniform and the people behind it who protect us.

I will forever keep you and your family in my prayers.

September 25, 2006

sorry for your loss, all of you, and Scott too. Mere words don't express.

W. Edge

September 25, 2006

Scott,
I tried a couple of times to write since last week's tournament but I couldn't get it out, But here goes.

The outpour of friends, co-workers and even strangers was so unbelievable. How so many people came together on a rainy Saturday ALL FOR YOU.

Here goes. I know you saw what was going on on the fields. Everyone felt you there. But I have to say, the closing ceremony was the most touching thing I've ever been a part of. I felt so honored to be on the field with Jared and Trish. I know you heard what Dusty was saying, and you were probably just wanting the game to begin, but it was very touching. I couldn't even look up, but I know there was not a dry eye at Angelica. The sobs were uncontrollable for you.

I spent a lot of time with Trish and the family this weekend and I have to say your not my only "HERO". Trish has got to be the strongest person I know. She truly shows the strength of a hero. But I see the sadness in her eyes even when we are talking about fun times and she is smiling or laughing. A big part of her is missing. Keep giving her the strength Scott because she needs it. This week the most.

We went to see Jared play football Saturday. God is he so you. It breaks my heart knowing that you will not be there for anymore first's, that Trish has to write about it on your Memorial Page.

I wasn't going to go to the Prelim. this week because you know me, it's hard for me to keep my emotions hidden. But like Trish said we don't want him to win. So after being with Trish this weekend and seeing how much support she needs right now I decided that I am going to be there. "We" ARE NOT going to let him beat us. We are all going to be there fighting for justice wearing your picture in support of your life taken way too soon.

Keep showing everyone the signs that you are still with them and I will talk to you soon.

Trish, you are my hero and I love you.
Scott, you are my hero and I miss you.

Lisa.

Lisa Leisey
Friend

September 24, 2006

Scott,
You know the last memories i have of you is when we
were at the wedding reception in May. We were slow
dancing with our wives out on the dance floor.
I wanted to give you a tap on the butt just to
see the look on your face, but the wedding police
( my wife ) said Noooooo !!!. I seen how happy
you and trish were dancing together, the look in
both of your faces was priceless.
When i went to leave, i looked around to find you
to say good bye, but when i looked out at the dance
floor, i thought i was seeing John Travolta out
there dancing. I then took a closer look, it was
you scott, dancing up a storm. I never got to say
good bye, i had to do that at your funeral.
Trish, as Scott's long time friend, i thank you
for making him so happy and being a great wife.

Scott, good bye for now..
slinger..

Rick Genslinger
friend/former colleague

September 24, 2006

hey scott, it's been a while since i wrote last. i read these reflections everyday. i know it is probably not good for me, but i do it anyway. you are the first thing i think about every morning, and the last thing every night. i wish i had the strength you had. i could really use some of that strength right now. the hearing is on tuesday, and i am scared. we all need you there with us, to help us through it. trish and i went to lunch yesterday because i really needed to talk to her alone. we had a good talk. she misses you so much scott. when i got there jared had 3 girls hanging outside with him. boy, does that bring back memories. i don't know where her strength comes from but she is doing a good job being strong for the kids. i am pretty proud of her. you, would be proud of her too. i was at jared's game last night & the Leisy's,& the Reber's were there. we did nothing but talk about you, and all of the funny stuff we did together. you left behind so many great memories. we could go on the whole night. we even laughed at the times when you got mad, because even those moments were funny too. believe it or not, dad has been going to the kids games. i know you always wanted that & it is ashame you are not here to see it. chad doesn't talk too much, and i just don't know what to do or say. he is stubborn, just like you. i am afraid of what is going to happen to our family. you were the glue that kept us all together. i don't think you ever realized how important you were & are to all of us. you are very missed. i wonder if you are with mom, pop, and nanny? are you ok? i had a dream of you again the other night. you were yelling at me for talking bad about someone. are you trying to tell me something? i love you scott, and you keep coming to me in my dreams. if that is the only way i will ever get to talk or see you again, you can come to me every night. i miss you so much. talk to you later.

love you,

shelly

shelly
scott's sister

September 24, 2006

Hey Hon. As I sit here staring at your picture (you know, the one I hate) trying to figure out how to shorten the many things I want to say, I still can't believe it. I feel like I am outside of my life looking in. It just doesn't feel real. I feel like I am living someone else's life. I am not the same person I was. A huge part of me is gone. That part is you. I feel like a part of me died with you. The happy part of me. I don't know most days how to go on without you. I just take it day by day and plug along. You would probably be having a fit over all of the fuss. I have been to four fundraisers over the past week and all have been just so wonderfully overwhelming! The amount of money raised is just incredible. Your friends and strangers - you wouldn't believe what they have done for us. I will never know how to thank them. I shed many tears at each one. Tears of sadness because I miss you so much and tears of astonishment at the generosity of people. It was so hard. So, so, hard. You not being there by my side - physically - like you always were. I know you were there with me and the boys. I felt you or saw you fly by. But nothing is the same. Nothing will ever be the same! It just sucks!! I don't know how else to describe it. You were not here today to see Josh's first ever touchdown or Jared's good game. It is things like that - ordinary things - that I miss you the most not being here. You missing those things makes me soooooo sad and angry. Many of your friends and family came to see Jared's game tonight. He was so happy. It just sucks that you are not here to see it. I know you are watching from heaven but it is just not right! Just not right! Loving you and missing you more and more each day!! Love you forever!! Until next time . . .

Trish

P.S. Please send me, Mick, and everyone else extra strength for Tuesday. We will need. WE WILL BE THERE FOR YOU!!!

Tricia Wertz
Loving Wife

September 23, 2006

Scotty,
Well it's been a week since we played for you and it was a great turnout.35 teams on 9 fields.You either played or umpired with most of the guys on all the teams there,how you ever managed to weasel your way on all those teams i'll never know, but you always seemed to be on 3 teams every summer.

I'm also glad that we got to play together this year a few times.I also got the chance to play and watch Jared and he actually hit better than you, it was great.I sat on that bench with him and it was like sitting next to you, he badgered me all day long, waiting to get the games going even though you could't see you feet in the mud, callin me "OLD FART" and to be honest with you I now feel that way.

I still look for WERTZ to pop up on my nextel when it beeps thinking that is you, just as it was on Sat. 7 weeks ago.Never did I think that that would been the last.



REST IN PEACE MY FRIEND
TILL WE MEET AGAIN,
JL

JL
FRIEND

September 23, 2006

Scott

Our #2 son and #1 son-in-law. I am still at your house. I will be here forever if that is what it takes to try and get Trish and the boys through this horrible tragic ordeal.

I am so sorry that I haven't been here before this. I just couldn't bring myself to do this cause I don't want or can't admit to myself that you are truly gone. I am just waiting for this terrible nightmare to end and I know that it isn't going to. Never in a million years would I have thought our family would ever go through such a tragedy like this. You were taken from us way too soon. I never really knew or thought much about the phrases broken or shattered heart until now, cause my heart is broken and shattered cause you are no longer with us, but you will always be in my heart and thoughts. There isn't a day that doesn't go by that you aren't in my thoughts. Some days are easy, but others are really hard to get through. I know I have to be strong but some days it is really tuff. Any mother would be proud or have been proud to have you for a son/son-in-law. I know I was. I am just so glad that I have so many fond memories of all our family trips, parties, gatherings, holidays, birthdays and ever day events and just being together. We will have those wonderful memories to cherish forever. I just wish there could have been more.

I thought I really knew all there was to know about you, but since your death we have learned so much about you and all the wonderful things that you did for people and never thought twice about helping someone.

I never knew or will I ever know anyone who knew as many people as you knew and helped as many people in all walks of life. It is truly amazing and how proud we are of you with all the people's lives you have touched. We all are so proud of you and you will always be (our HERO). You know that my family is my life.

Tricia is just so amazing in how strong she tries to be for everyone. I know that she is hurting more then any of us could ever imagine and who can blame her. Her husband, her lover, her friend, her soul mate and her boy's father were taken from her way too soon. I get up at nite to go to you know where and I see the lite or TV on in her room. I know that bed time must really be hard for her cause your mind is at ease and no one to talk to or anything that could keep you busy. You have too much time to think and of course there is only one thing on her mind and that is you.

I would do anything in the world to make her pain go away. I would trade places with you if it was at all possible. I just want her to know I am here day or night to talk to even if we have to cry together.

I know Jared must also be hurting. He doesn't say much, but some of his actions speak louder then words. Josh doesn't say much, but I don't think he can comprehend or really understands. We will never ever let them forget you.

Between your wonderful brothers in blue and all your friends, we will always take care of Trish and the boys. Your brothers in blue and their families and all your friends and neighbors (except one and you know who)are giving so much support and are here to help in any way they can. I know Dusty has been and will always be here for Trish and the boys. You know they are like two peas in a pot and I want to thank him for all that he has done and will do. I know they are hurting too.

They say time will heal and God has his reasons that are children are only borrowed, but I have a hard time dealing with those 2 phrases and I don't think we will ever heal, because there is such a big part of us gone knowing you are not here. We can all pretend to be normal and happy again, but for me it will never be and I know Trish will never be the same. I just want her to know I am here for her and the boys forever, even if I have to move closer for them I will.

When fall comes, you will have to show us signs that you are with us since there won't be any butterflies. We all look for them, cause we then know that you are with us and watching over us. I guess that is a comfort.

Rest in peace Scott. I know we will be toghter again forever.

Your mother-in-law

Barb Schappell
Mother-in-law

September 21, 2006

Mrs. Wertz,
I know you don't remember me but I was one of Jared's preschool teachers and when your husband would come in to pick up Jared, you could just see the excitement between the both of them, your husband excitied about seeing Jared and Jared excitied about seeing his dad. When I read the article about what had happened to your husband I just couldn't believe it, although I do not know you and your family personally, I heard a lot of people talk about your husband and how great of a man he was!
I cannot even imagine the pain you are going through or your boys' Jared especially, but I do want you to know that when I pray at night, I pray for you and the boys'.
May God Bless You and Give You Strength.
S. Linderman

S. Linderman

September 20, 2006

Its me again... There isnt a day that goes by that Matt and I dont think or talk about you. St Lucia was great, but not near what it would have been with you there.
Never thought I would miss those obnoxious late night calls to Matt. God do we miss you.

Brooke Mish
Friend

September 20, 2006

Mrs. Wertz we still think about him alot and think about you and the kids alot. We are all STILL and ALWAYS with you. God bless you and your family. Officer Wertz again THANK YOU and bless you.

Fire Fighter
Spring Twp. Fire Department

September 19, 2006

Well Hon, I don’t even know where to begin. I’ve wanted to write for several weeks but just wasn’t ready. I’m still not but I feel like I need to tell you some things. There are so many things I want to say. You always hated when I wrote you letters (ha-ha) so I will try to keep it short and sweet for now. Never, ever in a million years did I think I would be in this position – never, ever. I can’t even begin to describe the heartache, sadness, and emptiness that I feel in my body and soul, especially when I look at our kids. I can’t even begin to imagine what Jared is going through. I know what I am going through and I can’t imagine what it must be like for him to lose his dad at the age of twelve. I thank God (even though I am mad at him) and you for them everyday because if it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t get out of bed. Some days I just want to die just to see you again.

You would be so humbled, proud and honored to see all the wonderful, outpouring of support that EVERYONE is showing for me and the boys and in memory of you. You have no idea how much you were loved and cherished by sooooo many people. I had no idea! It comforts me to know that you don’t have to worry about us in any way. We are well taken care of in so many ways. My family, your family, my friends, your friends (except for you know who), your co-workers, my co-workers, neighbors, the many communities, strangers – I could go on and on - have given us so much love and support!! It has been so wonderfully overwhelming!!

I miss you sooooooo much. So, so, much. I hope you know how much I am hurting and how much I miss you. I will NEVER be the same. But, I don’t want you to worry because hopefully – someday - I will be OK – thanks to your strength. And don't worry, I will take great care of "your boys". I will be strong and make it through this FOR YOU – to honor you and for our kids. I miss so many things about you - your touch, your voice, your smell, your body, your laughter, your loving eyes, your loudness, your “funness”, your charisma, your playfulness, the special way you were with me and the kids, and yes, even your bitching (ha-ha)! Nights are especially hard for me because I am alone (everyone else is sleeping). Alone to sit and have my mind wander. Alone to get on this website and cry my eyes out. Alone because your warm body is not next to mine. (I bet you don’t miss me hogging the bed) (ha-ha)!

I need to say “Thank you” for giving me two beautiful, wonderful children. They are my world. They are a constant reminder of our love. I will cherish them, you, and our love forever!! They miss you so much, especially Jared. Josh doesn’t really understand. Which in some ways is good. However, I worry about him and Jared in the future. I worry that he won’t remember you like Jared will. I promise I will do everything in my power to make sure they NEVER forget you and all the wonderful things about you. Just the other day I was busting Josh about getting a haircut and he said to me, “Daddy will give it to me”. I just about died!! I told him you were in heaven with the angels watching over us. When I went to St. Lucia for the wedding, Jared was worried about the plane crashing. I told him I had an angel watching over me and then Denise told me that she worried about the same thing (because of Kendall having only one parent). Someone told her God wouldn’t do that to Kendall. I thought about that and you, my angel, and felt safe. I certainly hope God would not do that to them.

I always thought of you as a hero because of your profession. Boy, that word HERO has taken on a whole new meaning for me now. You are truly my, the boys, and everyone else’s HERO, especially the people from the City of Reading who you gave your life to trying to protect them. I hope they will NEVER forget you. God you loved that city!!

I need you to know that I am angry. Angry at God for taking you and angry as hell at the scumbag who took your life. I am not looking forward to the trial. In fact, I pray for bad things . . . well, you know what I am praying for. I and many, many others will do everything in our power to make sure justice is served. You died serving the law and now that law better serve you!!

Sometimes I worry if you are OK. But then I feel like you send me signs (keep sending them, because boy do I need them). You are my butterfly! I want you to know that I am not afraid of death like I once was because I know you are waiting for me. I also know you are watching over us. Please ask God to take special care of ALL OF US - family, brothers/sisters in blue, friends, stangers - everyone who has taken care of us in these past couple of weeks – we are all struggling – including Mick right now. I feel so bad for him. He was like your second wife! The prelim. is next week and I am going to need your strength and more to get through it!

God I love you and I miss you more than anyone could ever know!!


Until next time . . .

Love forever,

Your loving Wife Trish

Tricia Wertz
Loving Wife

September 19, 2006

I had the honor to play for the police dept. team in your tournament. I thank them for that opportunity. I also played 3 games with Jared, that boy is so brave. He played his heart out Scott. I know where he got that from. We didn't win, but we had a great day talking and sharing stories about you. I know it will never be the same without you playing with us again, but you will never be forgotten.

Mike Cichowicz
Friend

September 18, 2006

Well Scotty the big day is FINALLY over....to say it was a bit stressful is putting it mildly. It was a huge success with a great turnout (in spite of the rain) We did it all for you though !!!
I have to tell you the rain thing you could have helped us out a little bit instead of making it pour just at angelica field. HAHA But I know you were there with us ~~ there was a black and orange butterfly that just kept flying over the field and around the bleachers. Scott I know that was your way of letting us all know you were there. Even today everywhere we went there was a black and orange butterfly.

I have to tell you the boys are amazing... I look at them and see you. That devilish smile that Jarred has just makes me laugh. Because I know that is you.... He was so brave yesterday playing ball...You should be so proud of him. He played a game with Jim and went out to the mound and told Jim that they weren't going after the short pitches he would need to throw them a little deeper. It was so cute.

I also got to spend alot of time with Chad... His smile reminds me of you. He is a great guy and will be a good presence in the boys life. And just like you is a smart ass... I asked if I could sit next to him on the bench and he told me it would cost me $5 bucks... wonder who else would have said that to me !!!!
There were so many people there yesterday all wanting to show you how much we all care about Trish and the boys. And how much we all miss you. Everyone had a great time but it was also very evident that there was something missing. And Scott that something was you.
We all tried to keep our emotions in check during the day but by the end when Dusty spoke.... it was just too much to take.
Scott we miss you... and the easiest thing to say is we all want you back with us. But we all know that isn't possible. But you will stay with each and everyone of us.
Everytime I look at my bracelet that I wear for you know you are in my heart ~~~~ and everytime I now see a butterfly I will know it is you and that will make me smile.

Miss you and luv ya Scott

Kelley

Friend

September 17, 2006

Hey Scotty, I have been thinking about you and just wanted to say whats up. The Cotton Street Murder trial started Monday. When I was on the stand on Friday, the defense attorney asked what various Officers did in the investigation. When he read your name to me I could not respond. He asked again, "what role did Officer Scott Wertz play in this case"?
Scotty you now play a role in every case. You are now tasked in watching over everyone of use. You are the only person I know who could handle that task. Thank you, and if I dont get a chance to say it later, thanks again.

Winchester
Reading

September 16, 2006

I said I would write after the tournament Scott, but I read the new posts and I see how many people's lives are changed since you left us.

Shelly, I hope I never feel the pain you are going through because I know how I feel as a friend and it hurts. Like I told you at the funeral, the only words that sum it up is
"it SUCKS".

When you wrote about the whole "yo" thing, it freaked me out. Everytime I look around I think I see him. I hear "yo", and I think it's him yelling at me....(when "we" did something wrong), like down at the shore with the bathing suit......"The moon is out in Delaware". Scott seeing the thong. I'll never forget that....His face was unforgetable. I don't know how we are going to live without him. It breaks my heart looking at his picture and thinking of him as we knew him.

We are so busy this week planning the last details of this stupid tournament. IT'S JUST NOT RIGHT. We should not be planning a Memorial Tournament for you. You should be here with us. It makes me so mad that we even have to be doing this. The ONLY reason I keep doing it is because I see the outpour of the community toward you Scott, and I KNOW you would do the same for any of us.

Missing you everyday.......Lisa

Lisa Leisey
Friend

September 13, 2006

scott, i still can't believe it. my heart breaks everyday. i love you & miss you so much. i can't stop thinking about you. a song, a movie, football games on tv, are always there to remind me. your smile, your voice, is so clear in my mind. the other day i was driving & someone yelled , "yo!" i jumped & looked, it sounded like you, but it wasn't. it made me so upset i was sick to my stomach.i have to convince myself everyday that this is real. we were suppose to watch our kids grow up together. it's always been scott, shelly, & chad. you were my rock & my rock is gone. words cannot express the pain that i feel. i never could imagine this happening to us. you must know i cry for you everday. i dream of you all of the time, like nothing ever happened. then i wake up to this nightmare. a part of me is gone, and that part of me was you, my big brother. it is hard to make it through the day. nicholas says he misses his uncle scott everyday. it hurts so bad, i just can't believe that you are gone. i wish i could have been there with you that night, to be by your side, to hold your hand so you weren't alone. they wouldn't let me & i am sorry. i miss you scott, nothing will be the same without you. you were always my hero. now your a hero to everyone. everyone loved you. i can't believe the amount of people that came to pay their respects to you. that day is a day noone will every forget,you will always be remembered, never forgotten. i will talk to you soon.

love you,
shelly

michele scott's sister

September 10, 2006

Scott -

Its been a month since you left us and I still cant/dont want to believe that its real. Going to your funeral was one of the hardest things I have ever done - I dont think I have ever cried that much....and to see Jared wearing your "10" necklace and consoling Trish was almost more than I could handle. He was so brave. We all miss you so much - its hard to go on with our lives - but we do, we have to - its just so hard knowing you wont be here...although you will always be in our hearts and our memories...and what great memories you have left us with. You were always the life of the party. As Shelly said at your funeral, YOU WERE THE PARTY!! I will never forget you shining that stupid light in my windows, Bernies/Slammers softball games, your rearrangement of my deck furniture to let us know you used the pool, all the great parties at your house and of course, your need to call me CathLEEEEEEEEEN. You were the only one who got away with that one!

Scott and I did the motorcycle ride for you and Trish was so nice to let me borrow one of the ST softball shirts to wear so I could "take a part of you" on the ride with us. There were so many people there to show support for you - it was so awesome. After the ride, Scott and I rode to the crime scene....I dont know why - but I had to see it and it was one of the hardest things I ever did - to stand in the "spot" where your life ended....then we rode to your grave to say a few words.

It just doesnt seem real - that I wont be walking down the street and have you yelling something totally obnoxiouslly funny to me anymore. You always had a smile and were such a good friend. See what you can do about getting our Dallas Cowboys into the Super Bowl this year!!

I hope you are at peace and someday hopefully the rest of us will be too. Just know that we are here for Trish and the boys and will help in any way we can.

We miss you....you will NEVER be forgotten -

Catleeeeeeen "Ti-Ti" and Scott

Cathy & Scott Hertzog
Friend & Neighbor

September 6, 2006

Scott,
I couldn't sleep when I got home from my tour of duty tonight and came here to say hello and try as I have before to make sense of all this. Our family is not the same without you. We are coping the best we can. Trish is an AMAZING woman in how graceful, dignified and strong she is as she honors you during this most difficult time. Jared and Josh are doing as well as can be expected. Mom and Dad are ok but hurting like the rest of us. I tried writing several times but the words just don't come easy so I came up with this poem to try:

THE HERO

The 6th of August,
State Troopers came calling,
bearing bad news,
a HERO had fallen.

Weak in the knees,
I couldn't breathe,
sat down on the ground,
I just couldn't believe.

Shots rang out,
then "OFFICER DOWN",
a HERO had fallen,
protecting his town!

Did I hear them right?
How could this be true?
God please.....no.....
not our brother in blue.

Both personal and professional
a brother was lost,
a father, a son,
to high of a cost.

A wife and two kids,
are left behind,
as a senseless tragedy,
replays in our minds.

Now Jared and Josh,
are crying inside,
and Trish has become,
a widowed bride,
on that fateful day,
their HERO died.

Did you watch your tribute?
a grand farewell,
they came from all over,
because a HERO fell.

They lined the streets,
4-5 deep,
family, friends even strangers,
all weeped.

How could this be,
you were larger than life,
not a dry eye was seen,
cause our HERO died.

The lives that you touched,
will never be the same,
for answering the call,
and the HERO you became.

Your name will be added,
down in Washington D.C.
To the wall of HERO's,
for the whole world to see.

Rest in peace Scott, our family will be ok. With all the friends and support to help Trish and the boys, we will get through this. I don't know how but we will. I know you are watching over us and will protect us as best you can. Good byes are the hardest words to say. So I wont say good bye. Keep Dr.Coors on ice until we meet again someday.
We love you and miss you Scott,
Dustin

Police Officer Dustin Schappell
Baltimore, MD & Brother-in-law

September 6, 2006

I heard this song on the radio last night, as I was driving home from work. Somehow, even though I didn't know you, all I could do was think of you and your family. God Bless the entire Wertz/Schappell family!

Who You'd Be Today - by Kenny Chesney

Sunny days seem to hurt the most.
I wear the pain like a heavy coat.
I feel you everywhere I go.
I see your smile, I see your face,
I hear you laughin' in the rain.
I still can't believe you're gone.

It ain't fair: you died too young,
Like the story that had just begun,
But death tore the pages all away.
God knows how I miss you,
All the hell I've been through,
Just knowin' no-one could take your place.
An' sometimes I wonder,
Who'd you be today?

Would you see the world? Would you chase your dreams?
Settle down with a family,
I wonder what would you name your babies?
Some days the sky's so blue,
I feel like I can talk to you,
An' I know it might sound crazy.

It ain't fair: you died too young,
Like the story that had just begun,
But death tore the pages all away.
God knows how I miss you,
All the hell I've been through,
Just knowin' no-one could take your place.
An' sometimes I wonder,
Who you'd be today?

Today, today, today.
Today, today, today.

Sunny days seem to hurt the most.
I wear the pain like a heavy coat.
The only thing that gives me hope,
Is I know I'll see you again some day.

Some day, some day, some day.

Anonymous

September 6, 2006