South Brunswick Police Department, New Jersey
End of Watch Tuesday, October 17, 1989
Reflections for Patrolman Robert Anthony Cardone
R.I.P
Anonymous
October 17, 2022
My partner Tommy Ward and I had stopped two suspicious guys that night, right along Rt. 1. We had them out of their car, and as Robert was driving by, it looked like a dangerous situation. He pulled over fast and got out of his car. Another car’s driver couldn’t react in time, and hit him.
Words can never express my gratitude that a guy I hadn’t ever met gave his life coming to back me up. My only comfort is that I could spend a few minutes talking to him there. I’ve always hoped it was some comfort to him, too, that a brother was with him at the end.
Robert Cardone exemplified the Code that my old man taught me: When another cop needs help, it’s our duty to stop and help them, no matter where or when or what risk.
Greater love hath no man than he who would lay down his life for a friend. Amen.
Herbert Willuams
Lt., Woodbride PD (ret)
October 30, 2018
I went to the Essex County Police Academy with Bob in 1988. He was a great person and a dedicated police officer.
I have since retired after 25 years of service and I pause and remember Bob with great memories and the utmost respect. Thank you for your service. God bless you and your family.
Mark Leonard (retired)
Bloomfield PD (1988-2013)
January 9, 2016
I remember training for the upcoming academy in Bloomfield, and all of us getting ready to marry at the same time (Angelo, you, me....). Seems so long ago now and the world seems to be getting increasingly dangerous. Now my son talks of going into the field........
Retired Inspector Michael Krantz
December 16, 2014
Big Rob,
On this 25th year of your passing the reflections I have are memorable and joyous. Your personality and demeanor was one of a kind and I remember the many times hanging with you being nothing but funny and crazy. You were one of a kind my friend and you believed in the power of friendship and dedication to your desire to be a productive police officer. I will light a candle this year on your EOW day and remember you as an officer dedicated to his work and to see that you are honored as a member of society's shepherds, a brave and selfless one, and may the prayers of the world patrol light your way.
A.L.Zecca #96
SBPD RET.
March 14, 2014
Uncle Robert...It has been many years since your passing, but I still remember that day like yesterday. I was only 9 years old but your death hurt my heart like you will never know! My brothers and I loved you so much! You were such fun to be around, you always made us laugh and loved to play with us. It isn't fair that you were taken away from us all. You were on your way home from work, if you didn't pull over to assist a fellow officer you would still be here with us today. But that's selfish of me to say, because that was the man you were, always lending a helping hand. That's why everyone loved you! I remember driving in the car with you once and you were playing Run DMC "You be Illin'" and blasted it while singing along...I thought you were so cool :) Needless to say, that song is on my Ipod and I listen to it often and reminisce on the times we shared. Your memory will never be forgotten, Uncle Robert. We all miss you and love you so much!! Keep shining down and watching over us all <3 I love you, See you on the other side XOXOXOXOXOXOX Danielle
Danielle Labanich
Niece
July 8, 2013
Your heroism and service is honored today, the 20th anniversary of your death. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.
Rest In Peace
Phyllis Loya
Anonymous
October 17, 2009
"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 13, 2007
i will always love you and miss you rob.your always in my heart forver...
from your friend and soul mate
nadine simonelli
October 26, 2007
You are remembered today and thank you Sir for your service
Pat Van Den Berghe, Manchester, NH
Neighbors for a Better Manchester, NH
October 16, 2007
I had the pleasure of meeting Bob and talking with him several times. I remember most that great warm smile every time I saw him. He was the kind of individual that police departments like to have within their ranks, energetic, motivated, and caring of others. He was certainly a credit to the South Brunswick Police Department during his tragically short career.
Capt.Robert Fenkel, Ret.
New Brunswick Police Department
January 3, 2007
Bob was a great cop and a great friend. You will always be remembered.
Lieutenant Raymond Hayducka
South Brunswick Township
July 15, 2004
Want even more control of your Reflection? Create a free ODMP account now for these benefits:
- Quick access to your heroes
- Reflections published quicker
- Save a Reflection signature
- View, edit or delete any Reflection you've left in the past