Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

My thoughts goes to the family of William. His wife and childrens have made the sacrifice of a loved one who was, like so many of us, out nights and days for the protection of our communities. We all have lost a brother yesterday.

Chris
Police Officer in Switzerland

December 15, 2007

Hey Eric it's amazing how the community has come to gether. While working today I couldn't tell you how many citizen came up to me ask how you were and when I told them that you had passed, they would look at me and tell me how sorry they were what happened to you and thank you for what you did for their community. More that just brothers in blue cared about you Eric. While you're up there could you tell my mother hi for me, because I know she is standing beside you. She was married to an officer 27 years. We will keep you in our prayers.

Officer Hall
HPD

Patrolman
Huntsville

December 15, 2007

Officer Freeman,
Today you were called home and so many mourn the loss of you. I am praying that your family and friends will find comfort in memories of you during the next few weeks, months and years. There is no other more fitting word than "hero" to describe who you are.

Pennsylvania citizen

December 15, 2007

Mrs. Freeman
There are no words that can express how deeply sorry I am for the loss you and your children have suffered. You will always be included in my daily prayers. A great saddness is being felt throughout the United States today because Officer Freeman was the member of a larger family bonded by the badge. I did not know him personally, but I do feel an ache and emptiness inside knowing that my brother has lost his life honoring the badge and doing what he was sworn to do. Mrs. Freeman here is a poem that may help you in the days to come:

If Tomorrow Starts Without Me

If the sun should rise and find your eyes all filled with tears for me,
I wish so much you wouldn't cry the way you did today
While thinking of the many things we didn't get to say.

I know how much you love me, As much as I love you, and each time that you think of me, I know you'll miss me too;

But when tomorrow starts without me, please try to understand, that an angel came and called my name, and took me by the hand

And said my place was ready, in Heaven far above, And I'd have to leave behind all those I dearly love.

But as I turned to walk away, A tear fell from my eye, For all my life, I's always thought, I didn't want to die.

I had so much to live for, So much left yet to do, It seemed almost impossible that I was leaving you.

If I could relive yesterday, just even for a while, I'd say good-bye and kiss you and maybe see you smile.

But then I felly realized that this could never be, for emptiness and memories would take the place of me.

And when I thought of wordly things I might miss come tomorrow, I thought of you and when I did my heart was filled with sorrow.

But when walked thru Heaven's gates, I felt so much at home. When God looked down and smiled at me from His great
golden throne,

He said, "This is eternity, and all I have promised you." Today your life on earth is past, but here life starts anew.

I promise no tomorrow, but today will always last, and since each day is the same way, there's no longing for the past.

You have been so faithful, so trusting and so true. Though there were times you did some things you knew you shouldn't do.

But you have been forgiven, and now at last you're free. So won't you come and take my hand and share my life with me.

So when tomorrow starts without me, don't think we're far apart, for every time you think of me, I'm right here in your heart.


Mrs Freeman I know these are just words now, but maybe in the days to come you can find some comfort in them. Again, I am so sorry for your loss. May God Bless you and your family and hold you in his loving arms to give comfort.

Retired Officer Shelia Moore
Decatur Police Department

December 15, 2007

My mother called me from my hometown of Tuscumbia and told me that a police officer had been shot. I hoped for the best, but unfortunately my worst fears were realized. On behalf of my fellow officers, I would like to express my sincerest condolences to the family, friends, and coworkers of Officer Freeman. God bless you, brother.

"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. BLESSED ARE THE PEACEMAKERS FOR THEY SHALL BE CALLED THE SONS OF GOD. Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 5:6-10.

Officer Patrick Langley #112
Hot Springs Police Dept. (AR)

December 15, 2007

Eric my thoughts and prayers go out to your family. The last time I ran into you was at church a little while back. It brings joy to my heart to know that you are in heaven with our lord Jesus Christ. My son and one of your daughters are in awanas together and I heard her the other day say the lords prayer in from of the church. It sounded so sweet and innocent. Every time I see her I will say a special prayer for your family and every night before I go to sleep. My God wrap his arms around you and your family and keep them out of harms way. We love you Eric and you will be miss you a lot.

HPD Officer.

December 15, 2007

Dear Mrs. Freeman and children...I cannot begin to express the sadness I feel at the lose of your husband and father.

When I read what happened...it took my breath away. I will never understand how little regard some people have for a human being's life...it is beyond words.

I too have suffered a devastating loss...because of a violent act...and I know the grief and pain...you are carrying. It will never make sense to me...what is the purpose served...that someone so young...who is needed by his family...and has his entire future ahead of him...in a single moment...gets taken from his life and theirs.

Please accept my most sincere condolences...I pray...that God sends an abundance of His grace...to sustain you...as you face this horrific tragedy...during this season of hope...peace...joy...and love.

To the parents...extended family...friends...and all who knew and served with Officer Freeman...I also offer my deepest sympathy.

May God's perpetual light shine upon the soul of Officer
William Eric Freeman...and may he rest in His eternal peace...for having made the ultimate sacrifice...in serving and protecting his community. He will not be forgotten.

God bless this family...and know that you loved one...will be watching over all of you...from a far better place.

With my prayers...

Anita L. Culosi
sister of NYS Tpr. Salvatore J. Embarrato eow 7/6/61

December 15, 2007

Rest in Peace Officer Freeman - your law enforcement family now has the watch. May God be with you and your family during this time.

Deputy Sheriff
Dane County Sheriff's Office, Madison, Wisconsin

December 15, 2007

PO Freeman, your service to your community and the State of Alabama will not be forgotten.

Sgt. Robert Tabers
1175th MP Company St. Louis, St. Louis County DSN 2966

December 15, 2007

"The Badge"

He starts his shift each day
To respond to calls unknown.
He drives a marked patrol car.
A police officer he is known.

He's paid by the citizens' taxes
To make it safe on the streets.
But he usually has a second job
'Cause a waitress has his salary beat.

Now he doesn't know a holiday
'Cause he works all year round.
And when Thanksgiving and Christmas finally arrive
At his home he cannot be found.

He's cursed and assaulted often,
The one whos blood runs blue.
He seldom ever gets a thanks,
To some he's just a fool.

His friends are always other cops
'Cause people just don't understand
That underneath his badge and gun,
He's just another man.

He knows there might not be a tomorrow
In this world of drugs and crime.
And he gets so mad at the court system
'Cause the crooks don't get any time.

And each day when he leaves for work,
He prays to God above.
Please bring me home after my shift
So I can see the ones I love.

But tonight he stops a speeding car,
He's alone down this ole' highway.
It's just a little traffic infraction.
He does it everyday.

Well, he walks up to the driver's window,
And his badge is shining bright.
He asked the guy for a driver's license,
When a shot rang through the night.

Yes, the bullet hit its mark,
Striking the officer in the chest.
But the Department's budget didn't buy
Each officer a bullet-proof vest.

So he lay on the ground bleeding.
His blood wasn't blue - His blood was red.
And briefly he thought of his loved ones
'Cause in a moment the officer was dead.

In the news they told the story
Of how this officer had died.
And some who listened cared less,
But those who loved him cried.

Well, they buried him in uniform
With his badge pinned on his chest.
He even had his revolver,
He died doing his best.

Written By:
David L. Bell
Sergeant
Richland County Sheriff's Department
Columbia, South Carolina
Used with Special Permission of the Author
Copyright © 1999 - All Rights Reserved
and may not be duplicated without permission

Investigator David L Bell
Richland County Sheriff's Dept., Columbia, SC

December 15, 2007

You've fought the noble fight and now God has called you home. Return to Him in honor, my brother, and rest forever in peace. Thank you for your selfless sacrifice. You are my Hero!

Jeff
Former GPD Officer

December 15, 2007

Officer Freeman, thank you for your selfless service. My prayers and tears are with your wife and children, as well as all your Police brothers and sisters.

How can we ever repay you? You've given us everything. May God and his almighty love comfort your family, and may justice be served.

Timothy Reise
Nashville, TN (cousin of Chicago Police officer)

December 15, 2007

Rest in Peace, Brother. Our prayers go out to you, your family, and your extended family in the Huntsville Police Department.

Detective Korey Cooper
Columbia (TN) Police Department

December 15, 2007

As it comes to pass another day, a brother of the shield has fallen:
"And through the year's I've come to see, That I am not always what you ask of me; So, take this badge...take this gun.. Will you take it.....Will anyone?
And when you watch a person die and hear a battered baby cry, Then do you think that you can be All these things you ask of me?"
My brother you have paid the ultimate price. Rest my brother rest..
God Bless You and Your Family...

Master Trooper Ronnie Roe
Tennessee Highway Patrol
Chattanooga, Tennessee

Master Trooper Ronnie J. Roe
Tennessee Highway Patrol

December 15, 2007

I was praying for you to make it through but God had other plans. My prayers are with your family. Thank you for your commitment to serve and protect. Rest in peace.

SPC Walker

December 15, 2007

My thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Officer Eric Freeman in this difficult time. Godspeed Brother!

Mark Schilli
DEA-St. Louis

December 15, 2007

Rest In Peace Officer Freeman. We lose another hero.Thank you for dedicating your life to protecting others. To the family and friends of Officer Freeman , No words can take the pain away , but our thoughts and prayers will be with you ,and our own personal hero Officer Daniel Talbot EOW 9/29/07 will be there to welcome him.

Melissa

December 15, 2007

We are saddned to have yet another hero senselessly taken from us. You have our respect and gratitude for your service and sacrifice. Sir you are also distinguished by the profession you chose which in itself makes you a hero. Your brave actions will not be forgotten. Our prayers go to your family, police family friends, and the Citizens of Huntsville

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

December 15, 2007

Rest in Peace.

D. Paul
FBI

December 15, 2007

To the Family, Friends, and Officer(s) of the Huntsville Police Department,

Please accept my sincere condolences on the passing of Officer Eric William Freeman. Know that all of the law enforcement community is grieving over this tragic incident and we are praying that God will give you his strength and surround you with his healing power...

Deputy Randall Potenza
Broward County Sheriff's Office, Florida

December 15, 2007

My prayers go out to Officer Freeman's family and all the fine men and women at HPD. God Bless.

Cpl Jean Paul Rochat
Swiss Army, MP Service, Traffic Unit

December 15, 2007

My thoughts and prayers are with those friends and family members that are left behind and cannot follow. Rest in peace my brother in blue...we will take it from here.

Officer Adam F. Laser
Westminster City Police Department

December 15, 2007

Eric,
I can't believe that I am sitting here and looking at your picture on this website. This seems so unreal. We spent 18 weeks together in the academy and then were assigned to the same squad, answering most of our calls together and taking 10-10, etc. Eva and I have such fond memories of spending time with you and Leslie off duty. When I heard over the phone that you had been shot, I could barely speak, but I told Eva and she broke down. I am so sorry that this happened to you, and I'll never forget you so long as I live. Rest in peace, brother, and know that your brothers and sisters in the department will make sure that your family is taken care of. God bless you.

Chris Smith
HPD Officer

December 15, 2007

On behalf of the Newbury Police Department, May you accept or sincere condolences on the tragic loss of one of our brothers. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, your family, and fellow officers of the Huntsville Police Department. Rest in peace, we have the watch..GODSPEED!!

Ofc. Aaron P. Sparks #185
Newbury N.H. Police Department

December 15, 2007

Our prayers are with Officer Freeman's wife, children, family, friends, and brothers and sisters in the HPD. The citizens of Huntsville and Alabama are thankful for Officer Freeman's dedication to protecting the city and people of Huntsville.

Thankful Alabama Citizens
Friends of Officer Harley Chisholm, EOW 6/17/2004

Thankful Alabama Citizens

December 15, 2007