Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Mrs. Ricks:

I had already posted a note for Officer Ricks but wanted to ensure it updated, then I saw your message. I am humbled by your strength and courage.

I am greiving for you so much at this moment.

Please know that you son will always be remember, he will not be forgotten by those of us who respect and admire the work that our police officers do.

Your son deserves our respect and gratitude for his sacrifice. He is distinguished by the work that he did and by the comments of those who loved him so.

God Bless you for raising such a hero. How proud you must be, and how honored I am to be able to tell you this.

Most sincerely

Pat Van Den Berghe
o/b/o Neighbors for a Better Manchester, NH

Pat VanDen Berghe
Neighbors for a Better Manchester, NH

October 12, 2007

Ernie, you were my first son, after having three daughters! (Total Bliss). You got your first bike at age 8. Three days later you were "fixing it" by removing the hand brakes. You continued to "pop wheelies" and your right foot was your brakes. Once you were "lost" for several hours after school and we were distraught searching everywhere for you. Of course until one of your friends confessed that you were hiding in the garage because of a "bad report card". No repercussions, just big hugs, joy, and relief. Your military adventures. You could not divulge your whereabouts for months. The only clue, a box of candy with a German postmark. Your marriage to Princess, or as you lovingly called her "P", having your daughter Phoenix whom you adored. When you joined the police force, fulfilling your lifelong dream. I'll always remember your last words to me, "Here is your kiss". It was on Mother's Day. About your dad, he was so devastated when you passed. A few years later, he died of a broken heart. So Ernie, since you continue to be the Wind Beneath Our Wings, you can't be incognito any more. You see, I know where you are! See you soon. Love, Mama (MamaDamps)

Marguerite T Ricks
Mama

October 11, 2007

To Officer Ricks, but "Earnie" to us, we salute you dearest cousin, who was more of a big brother and friend. You are terribly missed and always thought about. We still laugh at some of your pranks and jokes you played on us, but we will never forget the challenging times when you gave us advice and encouragement. Since you have been gone, it's these great memories that we cherish. In all of your accomplishments you gave your finest and best bringing honor to our country and our family. Earnie, you are our personal hero.

Colette Hagans, Mike & Mel Young

October 10, 2007

My Dear Uncle Ernie:

Though many years have passed your presence is still missed. I often think of the high hopes you had for me when I was a child and hope that you are proud of the woman I have become. I may not have accomplished all that you dreamed for me, but you put the dream inside my heart and I will follow that dream always. You made me feel special and always let me know there was nothing I could not accomplish. I miss you uncle Ernie.

Noni Whitner
Niece

October 9, 2007

Ernie -

Wow, this is hard. It's going to be hard to top Lit's reflection; so I guess I won't try. I can't believe it's been 19 years since you left us. Probably because we know you never really did and never will. Unlike Lit, I'm one of your big sisters; and can reflect on changing your diapers; rejoicing in your first steps; kissing away your boo-boos; pushing you in an ol-timey, wooden handle stroller (I've got pictures!); and rewarding you with gold stars in the Miss Helen Summer School. Trips to museums; amusement parks; and playing softball and badminton with Jack and Jiffy are wonderful memories of our childhood days. I missed out on your teen years; but had the pleasure of seeing you grow into a man that we are very proud of. A man who showed strength and determination, and unconditional love for his family and friends. Everyone could feel your joy with Phoenix in your arms. Now that you're in a better place, no doubt on a higher plane, we look to you to watch over and keep us safe. Happy trails, Ernie, 'til we meet again. Love. "Howlen"

Helen Ricks Owens
Sister

October 8, 2007

Thank your for your work. Rest easy we got the watch.

Officer RM Taylor
US DOJ

October 8, 2007

Officer Ricks,
It has taken 18 years, but you are finally being honored. I would like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just for your community, but also for our Country when you served in the U.S. Army. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
Anonymous

Anonymous

October 4, 2007

Gone but not forgotten. Rest in peace my brother in blue. As you walk Heaven's beat. Protect over your family, friends, and co-workers with the Metropolitan Police Department.

God's Speed

Sr. Officer D. Johns
City of Sandy Springs Police, Georgia

October 4, 2007

Just taking a moment to remember you and thank you for giving all you had to give.

Pat Van Den Berghe, Civilian
Citizen

October 4, 2007

Seems like only yesterday, the front porch on Kennedy St., Rock Creek Park, Nativity. You had to walk your little sister to school, so you made me walk a half block behind you, so your friends wouldn't tease you. You taught me "how to"- ride my bike like a daredevil over ramps, jump off a roof properly so I didn't break anything, throw the firecracker before it explodes in your hand,(unlike yourself), throw snowballs at moving cars with accuracy, skip mass on Sunday and still bring home the bulletin for proof that we were there, play every sport better than the boys, box - knock our sister out with one punch, play cops and robbers, army, cowboys and indians. Most important, be the best at whatever you do, and eat life before life eats you. Seems like only yesterday you got married to Irelene, Phoenix was born, and yal moved away. Us always on the phone, talkin' 'bout those Redskins. You were so proud listening to my police war stories. Funny, you would follow your little sister and brother and become a cop. You were so excited about your first stolen auto pursuit and foot chase. You were living your dream. You went out in a blaze of glory. Seems like only yesterday, but its been 19 years. I finally bought the land we use to talk about. I am building a small ranch. Its the ECR III Ranch of course. I am still walking a half block behind you, but I know you will make sure that I finally get there. Love LIT

Sgt. Lillian Ricks-Allen
Sister

October 4, 2007

God Speed, Brother.

P.O.K.Murphy
Union PD, NJ

September 28, 2007

Although your service with the department was short, your death will be remembered. Thank you for your service to the department and our country. God be with you your family.

Police Officer
Metropolitan Police DC - 4D

September 28, 2007

you are not forgotten brother, rest in peace...

deputy
texas

September 28, 2007

It is an honor to be the first one to leave a reflection. May you rest in Peace, sir.

Supervisory Border Patrol Agent
U.S. Border Patrol

September 28, 2007

Rest in peace, Officer Ricks. You have served us with honor. May your friends and family, as well as all of law enforcment, honor your sacrifice.

Lt. Jim Keenan
Rochester, NY PD

September 28, 2007

I am glad to see the hard work of my classmates to establish this website in honor of Officer Ricks. I have never forgotten you. You are always with me as I mature on this job. I believe that because of you I am a Police Officer. You will always be in my memories and your family. I beleive that you are a angel watching over us.

Officer Doris A. Brown
MPDC

September 28, 2007