Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Tom -

Another officer has reportedly fallen in St. Louis as has reportedly a firefighter. I hope you, Bill, Scott, Ralph, my Dad and everyone else will greet them with open arms.

I will be attending a ceremony honoring you tonight at the National Explorer Conference. You did a lot for the Kirkwood kids.

You are missed my friend.

Scott Barthelmass

July 21, 2008

To those who loved Officer Ballman, my heart goes to you all. Know that you're not alone in this journey you walk. I lost my fiance in the line of duty January 2003 and my world was forever changed. It's been a long hard road, and even as time as gone forward, and I've found many reasons and ways to smile, I still have not forgotten the man that he was. Dennis was a beautiful person and he forever has a part of my heart, just as I'm sure Tom will always be a part of yours.

It takes a special person to put their lives on the line everyday to make this world a little safer for us all. I know many of these men never would've thought of themselves as "heroes" but they were in so many ways. It's sad that it they had to lose their lives for some of us to see that. Having said that, thank you Officer Ballman for helping to make this world a better place. You will not be forgotten here in Winnipeg. I know this isn't a very manly thing to do, but if you happen to run into Dennis up there, please give him a big hug for the kids and I. Dennis was a good man and we miss him more than words can say.

Wishing those who loved you brighter and better days,


Jocelyne

"Forever Remembering 26-3"

Jocelyne Brar (Winnipeg, MB Canada)
Fiancee to Deputy Dennis Ray McElderry (EOW: 01/03/03)

July 15, 2008

Well honey I just flew back from K.C. where Chuck put on this wonderful golf tournament for you at the lake - (Like you don't know what went on. I know you were there watching over all.) And thanks for controlling the weather and giving us a gorgeous day for golf. It made a lot of money for Backstoppers, in your name.
I want you to know how much I miss you. I tell you that daily but I want to write it down too.
I hope your new life is perfect. I do believe you have a new wonderful life and are enjoying it like you enjoyed your life here with all of us.
I take tons of pictures so when you come to visit me you can see them all.
Please come for a visit and tell me how you are doing.
I love you so much,
Mom

Sue Carol Miller
Mother

June 23, 2008

Traffic Counters...That is what you left me with? It keeps me busy I guess. Anyway, I just wanted to stop in and say hi. As you can imagine I am around the station all of the time now, since it is summer. However, this time I am getting paid to be there which is always better. I sit with Jim a lot in your office, or as Jim would say "My office". I took over Jim's old desk for the time being and he sits where you did. I was talking to Jim last week sometime and asked him, "how did Tom sit across the desk from you?" All day I sit there and laugh at those jokes he makes and most of them are making fun of me, but of course I laugh and hear your voice asking me why I am laughing. I think being around Jim and reflecting on the good times we had with you are helping me out. Just one more thing. Jim and I went to El Indio the other day and I put in a bunch of the hot sauce in the salsa and Jim looked at me and asked me why I was crying. Right when he asked me that, I thought back to the time in Warrensburg when I at that salsa that had more hot sauce than salsa and started to cry. Then you said, being the man of the situation, "it can't be that bad!" Boy you were wrong, both of us were in tears after that first bite. Anyway, I just wanted to say hi and let you know that I am thinking about you and your family everyday.

Mike
Kirkwood PD

June 15, 2008

Happy Father's Day babe! I gave each of the kids a special photo frame with a picture of you and them together. We're going to visit your tree at Kennerly School. I love you! Hugs and kisses from Josh and Rachel.

Lulu, Wife of 282

June 15, 2008

Just wanted to let you all know I am thinking of you all and praying for you-not a day goes by I don't think of you. I know tomorrow will not be easy-but I know you have many, many memories to reflect on and always will-he will never be forgotten and lives on in all of you.-Jayne McEntee, Bill's sister.

June 14, 2008

Cindi,
Well I have been meaning to drop you a note, we have been crazy busy. I was so glad that you were able to stop by the cafe a few weeks ago, only wish i had a little more time to catch up with you. You know that if you need anything we are just a call away. I know with fathers day coming up its a little hard. Just celebrate Tom just like we are celebrating my dad. Thats what they would want. I know that your children are young, but celebrate Tom and keep him alive in their hearts and minds. You and my mom are both strong women and have handled this whole turn of event with more strength and pride than i have ever seen. You, Josh and Rachel are always in my thoughts and prayers.

Cody Biggs
Son of sargent Biggs

June 13, 2008

June 7th, 2008 - Just four months after your death I went to see Dave Matthews at Busch Stadium. You would have loved the concert, the crowd and most importantly, Dave! It was wonderful but not the same without you there. In all of the times that we have gone to see him you never got to hear 'Ants Marching' Live. He played it last night and I felt like you may have played a roll in the song selection. I could hear you in my head singing along. Your spirit and love is always ever present with me and I love you even more for that. Next Sunday is Father's Day and it won't be the same without you smokin' some ribs in the backyard. The kids and I will be just fine - the Wester family will take of us. Josh and Rachel send their love - God Bless our brave Hero! I love you! Help watch over the Biggs and McEntee family on that day. I know we'll all be thinking of the three of you. Love you! Cindy

Lulu, Wife

June 8, 2008

As promised I got Josh a basketball poll for this 6th birthday and we went to Sky Zone for a party with many of his classmates and friends. He was very excited. We also received many Star Wars and Indiana Jones Lego sets which is also a cause for much enthusiasm. Your beautiful daughter Rachel has also met a milestone. She's potty trained and so excited. She has to share every moment with anyone who will listen - including telling daddy! We miss you and know that your spirit is with us always. Love you!

Lulu
Wife

June 2, 2008

"Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called children of God." Thinking of all of you today. Kathy, Bill Mac's sister

May 15, 2008

Officer Ballman,

It is because of dedicated Kirkwood officers like you, who rescued my mother and I from a drunk intruder on Argonne Dr. when I was only 5 years old that I chose this profession. Rest in peace.

Chief Jason Curtman
Bloomfield MO Police Department

May 14, 2008

My heart goes out to the families of these brave officers. May God bless each of you and keep you safe and strong!

Dana
Cousin of Deputy Mike Pace EOW:Dec 1998

May 13, 2008

Hey Bill, just dropped in to say hey. I still think of you and Bill, and MAC everyday. It is hard to look into your office and not expect you to give me trouble or have something witty to say. It's not the same around here anymore, but we are trying to stay strong. . Do me a favor and say hey too MAC for me. Tim

Patrolman Tim Brand
Kirkwood

May 11, 2008

Dear Tom,
I somehow stumbled upon this and had to write something yet I can’t seem to put any words together. You were an amazing and extremely funny character and will be truly missed! I will never forget you! My prayers are with Cindy, Josh, and little Rachel…cant wait to see you guys this summer!!

Ashley Edwards
neighbor

May 3, 2008

Tom-
We think of you often and pray that Cindy, your children, mother, and sisters can move on from this tragedy, however it cannot be easy. Your service will not be forgotten. We love you.

Amy and Roger Camp
Friend

April 25, 2008

It has now been two months and there are times during my day where I still expect you to walk through the door. Your friends and family are a huge support. I went back to work and it has provided me with a good distraction but I still catch myself looking at my phone and wondering why you haven't called me to talk about the latest gadget that you want to purchase. Our children are a constant reminder of you, their laughs, their frustration, their smiles are a reflection of you. I love you and may you and God continue to show me the way. I will forever keep you in my heart. The ying to my yang, Lulu.

Lulu, Wife
Spouse

April 13, 2008

Tom,
Its been two months now, and I still can't believe your gone. You will always be missed, and I promise to never forget you, and how great you were.

Tori Mikes

April 7, 2008

Tom you were a credit to your uniform may god bless you and your family I will remember you in my prayers. Rest in Peace
Des Goulding
Retired Local Government
Law Enforcement
Officer Australia

Desmond Goulding
Retired Local Government Law Enforcement officer Australia

April 6, 2008

God Bless you Tom!!! No words can express how sorry I am that you, your family, brother and sister officers and the entire Kirkwood community must now endure after this horrific act. I pray that you, Bill McEntee and my brother Bill Biggs are able to reflect back on some of the memories you have and have made for many. Please watch over the rest of us and know that you are in our prayers each day. What a wonderful family you have Tom! I'm so sad that we had to meet on account of this tragedy. I will never forget how beautiful your procession was. I will forever cherish the memory of your wife, Cindy and your mother on the side of highway 44 waving the American Flag and the Marine Corps Flag so proudly, as we proceeded to Bill's home in Gerald, to spread his ashes. Those memories will always touch my heart. I only wish I had known you and your family before this sad February day. I will treasure getting to know them better in the days ahead as we celebrate your lives. God Bless you and thank you for your service to Kirkwood and our Country.

Rest In Peace

Kathryn Biggs Hoberg (Sister of Sargeant Bill Biggs)

Kathryn Biggs Hoberg
Sister of Sargeant Bill Biggs

April 4, 2008

We offer our heartfelt sympathy to the family, friends and colleagues of Officer Ballman and we honor his distinguished service to the cause of justice and peace. Sadly, our nation has lost one of its finest citizens, a community has lost a friend and protector, and a family has lost an example of character and courage who they will love and respect forever. Today, because of the sacrifice Officer Ballman has made, the house of freedom is stronger, sturdier, and more secure.

To the family, friends, and colleagues of Officer Ballman, I would like you to know that a lot of people pray for you, and my hope is that their prayers will give you the strength necessary to move on. Just as you were always with him when he walked the beat or patrolled the streets, know that he will always be with you - wherever you may be. In the days to follow, may you be strengthened by the fact that Officer Ballman is a man distinguished by exceptional courage and will always be admired for his brave deeds and noble qualities. You, your family and your sacrifice will never be forgotten.

For those who pledge to uphold it, Freedom requires a sacrifice the protected will never know.

Special Agent
FBI New York City

March 21, 2008

CANT SAY WHAT I WANT TO SAY SO GOOD NIGHT DEAR MAN, REST IN PEACE. YOU WERE A SOLDIER WHO PAID THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE FOR A GOVERNMENT THAT DOES NOT REALIZE WHAT MEN LIKE YOU DO. I LOST MY DADDY 18 YEARS AGO AND STILL I DO NOT UNDERSTAND WHY. IF THE COURT AND JUDICIAL SYSTEM WORKED WE WOULD NOT BE FACED WITH THIS SO MUCH. MORE POWER TO THE DRUG PUSHERS AND DEALERS. THEY BRING REVENUE TO THE COUNTY AND STATES. HEAVEN FORBID YOU GET A DUI O5R DONT HAVE THE MONEY TO PAY THE CHILD SUYPPORT. IF THE SYSTEM WORKED THE WAT IT SHOULD BRAVE, HONEST MEN LIKE YOU WOULD STILL BE HERE. SOMEDAY MEN LIKE YOU WILL BE APPRECIATED FOR THE JOB THEY DO, UNTIL THEN, WE WILLL LIVE IN THIS SOCIETY. ONES LIKE ME THANK YOU AND APPRECIATE YOU.

kimberly kidwell
daughter of fallen stanford ky fallen officer gary kidwell 1991

March 15, 2008

God bless Tom Ballman and his family. His full name is Thomas Frederick Ballman.

Vasili
Other

March 12, 2008

Tom,
For a month now, I have read all these and wondered what I was going to say. First of all, I am sorry for not keeping in touch with you better over the the last year. I am honored to have known you and had been considered as your friend. We had a lot of good times while working in the jail together. There you were like a big brother to me and I really learned the art of listening and talking to people from you. I could go on and on, but who could not about you. I know you are watching over all of us. God bless you, Cindy and the kids.

Scott
Friend

March 10, 2008

Hi babe - I can't believe it's been 4 weeks since your passing. Josh has lost two teeth one on Saturday and the other on a Wednesday. He was very excited about losing the teeth and little upset that the tooth fairy didn't leave him more. Josh also had his first practice with his new baseball team. They decided to call the team "The Backstoppers" and will be honoring you by putting your DSN on the arm of their uniform. I'm so proud of how well Josh is doing. I hope that I can make Josh even half the man that you were. I love you babe.

Lulu

Lulu
Wife - #282

March 8, 2008

Thankyou for your service and sacrifice, you are not forgotten

POLICE OFFICER
PHILA PA

March 8, 2008