Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Police Officer William Coleman Cook

Metro-Dade Police Department, Florida

End of Watch Wednesday, May 16, 1979

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Reflections for Police Officer William Coleman Cook

All police work involves a chain of events and proper procedures put into place to get to warrant results that best serve the public. All of our lives and waking moments we just attempt to be honest and sincere. Knowing full well we can make a difference somehow, it just takes a little effort. For everything you were worth, Officer Cook, it took a whole lot of invested time, training, practicing and learning not only in the field, but in a place where you are taught along with other recruits and that is in the classroom. Certain things are spelled out as to how they should be carried out and when you first went out on patrol, I'm sure your field training officers could spot a genuinely caring and professional police officer among their ranks. No doubt a humbly born leader waiting to lead others. Your peers and friends do honor and cherish your memory. A life and career composed of dignity, pride and excellence establishing a legacy full of character, bravery and the commitment to serve all Dade County in a first class manner. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. Perseverance pays dividends to those dedicated men and women.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

December 10, 2015

Extraordinary people deserve the same kind of special attention when they give their lives for all the right causes of peace. And you were just that kind of officer, Officer Cook. Your honesty, dignity and integrity is what separates you from those public servants who are in taking the proper heroic action. We salute your loyalty and compassion, while remembering your driven desire to succeed. And faith was only a tip of your success. Your professional accomplishments speak louder than anything. You learned from a young age how to deal with adversity and utilized a positive means when protecting the public and in maintaining the peace and much needed freedom in Dade County. Now thirty-six years you continue to be saluted for your unwavering courage and bravery over and beyond the calls of duty. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

December 10, 2015

Decency and desire are well and good. Put them together with integrity, dignity and honesty. It makes for a much more rounded career. And since all police officers must display this upon their badges and uniforms, it goes to reason as to why most men and women are exceptional and professional in their mannerisms. Officer Cook, Dade County and its people have a lot to be grateful and thankful for. One of their truly loyal and faithful servants went out of their way to respond to a scene and to be courageously able to apply your skills and voice of reason to attempt to get a troubled young man to surrender, can't say enough. You continue to stay saluted and to be given accolades of honor for heroically and humanely saving quite a few lives, your colleagues and those civilians who relied upon your ethical conduct to see them through. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. Those valiant and brave heroes and heroines are sheltered by God's loving kindness and grace. Your exact attributes, Officer Cook. One needs to only look back at your loving, caring and most humble upbringing.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

December 8, 2015

Receiving compliments are nice. Professional courtesy while keeping one's honor and dignity intact means so much more. When a servant of both God and the citizens of which they strive to protect is humane and loyal we call them outstanding. You were a very trusted gentleman, Officer Cook. It was always what could you do more to assist the situation. Legacies and character run along the same tracks as does commitment and courage. You sir had the undaunted compassion to tackle any challenge and to be able to uplift the spirits of all, we cannot say anything finer. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. Your everlasting grace and gallantry saved the day on May 16, 1979 and has since made an impression to stay with us forever.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

December 8, 2015

Self destruction may lead to a loss of character, commitment and morals. So constructing a career of validation based upon the ideals of honesty, integrity and dignity is the one surefire way to stay straight and to be able to survive the rigors of a demanding career. All the signs pointed to you, Officer Cook having a functionally sound career. The journeys we make are not always our doing, as it is Our Creator who pilots our every move. And you were a sound officer, full of life, vision and personality whose leadership role endeared you to so many comrades in arms who battled against the same enemy on a daily basis, evil, wickedness, the very heinous violence that took you from our midst while you were a young man so full of life and energy. We must keep in mind your bravery, boldness to act and the unselfish sacrifice that has led to many positive changes for all citizens of Dade County. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

December 7, 2015

I meant to say, Officer Cook, that your life and career were marked with priceless moments. Innovation that excites the residents of Dade County as they looked forward to your patrolling and preserving their dignity. That can only happen if that particular officer is attuned to honesty and integrity. Central to any successes in one's own life and chosen line of endeavor. Remember one thing the key to achievement to to maintain conviction, character and commitment to duty, pride and excellence. You mastered these skills very well and have been looked back on as a solid professional carrying valor and bravery on your uniform. Always revered. Only loyal and trusted among your peers. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. We salute the heroic legacy that you have passed on to others to model themselves after.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

December 7, 2015

As precious as the sand of time in an hourglass, so too are the moments that we accomplish something extra ordinary. Anything a police officer does to achieve peace and unity in our nation is mighty humble. So those twenty-five years of your life and career were marked by priceless. Having never withered away your time, Officer Cook, a man's honor, integrity and dignity are too marked by time. The good Lord gives us life and vitality and in an instant it can be gone. You lived for a reason and that was for you to work hard to become a highly seasoned officer who took direction and was able to mold and shape character and commitment out of other comrades. Only a few brave and resourceful men and women can lead by example. It takes diligence, vigilance and perseverance, along with a keen sense of vision to look clearly at what needs fixing and to repair the situation. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. You helped others help themselves. Dade County was furthered by your humane actions of nobility and of gallantry. We don't forget our heroes and heroines. The upbringing spelled it out as to why you were successful. You did have more left to accomplish. You are observing us, Officer Cook, hopefully we are upholding our end of the deal. Honesty is what helps us stay afloat.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

December 6, 2015

God only knows why bad things happen to good people. If He could only take back that awful day of May 16, 1979, Officer Cook, the day you passed very sadly from this world. Your honorably heroic actions spearheaded further enhancements in the Dade County community where you were respected and admired for having the dignity and integrity to fight, battle and to conquer evil where one day we hope it will vanish from our midst. Staying attuned to your solid professionalism, the solid quality of character all officers need is what separates the loyal and trusted servants from those who may not be as reliable. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero, for the Jewish nation tonight begins the eight day holiday of Chanukah, which celebrates the victory of the Jewish Nation over the mighty Greeks. You were a friend to all and one of your parents' neighbors, the Coopermans were one of your best friends, their son, Leonard. I wonder if your sister, Nancy would remember where his bar Mitzvah was held. You would have attended my Bar Mitzvah if my family knew your family. Any how you will remain treasured as a hero, humble in all your actions and righteous in your approaches to life itself and during your police career

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

December 6, 2015

If more folks had the courage to stand up in what they believe in the world would be better off. You had the convictions, Officer Cook, to protect and to serve all Dade County people no matter their status. We are forever grateful for your candor, courage and honor. Surely, a sign that your dignity and stellar integrity keeps alive your shining legacy of special character and commitment which in part helped you forge a bond with all people. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. Cherished and among the many chosen heroes and heroines of the law enforcement nation.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

December 5, 2015

We dedicate our lives to making wise choices that will lead to the further enhancement of our society. The choice you made, Officer Cook, was to become a police officer. But, it runs way deeper than that. For most of us understand the responsibilities that go into making oneself into a fine public servant. You need three basic credentials: honesty, dignity and integrity. If you do not have them or think that you can go off the right path once in a while, better think about another career. We do look to all of our very valiant and brave men and women to make smart decisions that will lead to liberty, peace and unity staying constructed properly. Character tackles the wonders of thinking, caring, consideration and in calming down those who seem a bit agitated. You were innovative, intelligent and a man of unimpeachable capability, Officer Cook, undaunted by the tests of evil, your and career did make a difference for the enhancement of all citizens of Dade County. Salutes of solemn remembrance mark you sacrifice which keeps alive your soul and legacy perpetually. rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. All the more reason to honor your memory of a wonderful gentleman, a devoted servant of God and an inspiration not only to your loving family, but to those future colleagues who are entrusted with an arduous task, to maintain honor while keeping the peace among all others. You can only take things one day at a time. Practice developing one good trait and then just concentrate on climbing that ladder which may someday lead to success. Police venture into all areas and the message is clear, be careful, stay true to your tasks at hand and be willing to help at anytime.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

December 5, 2015

Life in and of itself presents the toughest of challenges. It is those humble and driven servants who reap what they earn. Nothing is given. Nothing should be taken for granted. When peace and unity collide as well they should, then the evil of violence and innocent bloodshed can be wiped away.You stood for boundaries, bravery and the willingness to commit yourself, Officer Cook, to an honest life and a much nobler professional career as a dedicated police officer. A hero's calling and for this Dade County and the entire police world salute your integrity and dignity, performing in an outstanding manner while saving your comrades and civilians from further harm. You certainly will never be forgotten as you remain cherished and admired as much as you were both loyal and faithful. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

December 5, 2015

Sacrifice takes commitment. Commitment requires character. Courage takes on a dimension of heroism, honesty and the most sacred of intentions. Everything that indeed makes an excellent police officer you had, Officer Cook and so much more than we could ever ask of our devoted public servants. Dade County has lived and yet somehow survived all the violence and bloodshed since you gave your life and career for sustenance to continue. You will remain cherished and respected for trying to calm a young man sadly bent on violence. You did everything properly and by the book. God takes over and guides His servants on paths of righteousness. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. Your valor, bravery and legacy stay with those who knew and respected you for your supreme professionalism. The toughest times sometimes call for the toughest measures to secure the necessary peace and unity the residents truly deserve. But then life as we call it in and of itself. You excelled, Officer Cook.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

December 4, 2015

To rise early and to be able to serve God with such humility speaks volumes regarding a person's character. When that individual is a police officer and must be honorable and have integrity when facing whatever issues come their way, we can't say enough. You were that supremely humane hero to all Dade County, Officer Cook. Your comrades and department were indeed fortunate to have you among their ranks serving with dignity and a most refreshing commitment to quality and excellence in pride. We remember your good soul and brave heart. One determined to eliminate evil from this world and you excelled mightily in your professional role. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

December 4, 2015

As some people say, I have a humbly good memory. So you will never be forgotten, Officer Cook. Who can forget a fierce warrior who was decent, honest and carried himself with the utmost professional decency and politeness. All these years later, too many unfortunately since your untimely passing, Your colleagues at the Central Division remember you. They share your memories while Dade County residents who may still be around revere their savior, a man of gentle persuasion and born with a uniquely calming voice of reason. We need our heroes and heroines to be professional, to act like public servants not to stray from honesty. Keep observing us as you rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. We will salute your commitment to excelling in pride and performance of duty. Let your legacy reflect a lifetime of piousness and humane righteousness. Those two go together just as the badge and uniform your wore with success. Dress for success. Always plan ahead. Officer Cook, you were the prime example of a thinking man's police officer.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

December 4, 2015

As some people say, I have a humbly good memory. So you will never be forgotten, Officer Cook. Who can forget a fierce warrior who was decent, honest and carried himself with the utmost professional decency and politeness. All these years later, too many unfortunately since your untimely passing, Your colleagues at the Central Division remember you. They share your memories while Dade County residents who may still be around revere their savior, a man of gentle persuasion and born with a uniquely calming voice of reason. We need our heroes and heroines to be professional, to act like public servants not to stray from honesty. Keep observing us as you rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. We will salute your commitment to excelling in pride and performance of duty. Let your legacy reflect a lifetime of piousness and humane righteousness. Those two go together just as the badge and uniform your wore with success. Dress for success. Always plan ahead. Officer Cook, you were the prime example of a thinking man's police officer.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

December 3, 2015

When the skies open up the rains come flowing down. A police officer's integrity and honesty too shall flow. It better each and everyday. Your record and career accomplishments, Officer Cook humbly speak loud and clear. Now if only the perpetrators of this mayhem can really get the message. It was delivered by you from 1973 until May 16, 1979. Spoken like a real champion of all citizens of Dade County. Your heroic legacy represents, dignity, desire, devotion and dedication to all the right causes. You were a gallant man. Treasured and yet confident in your talents and abilities. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. We were blessed to have a wonderful public servant, the world lost a great professional unique and calming with a mindset to match.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

December 3, 2015

Praise the Lord for all His works. Salute those God-fearing servants who give their lives for a noble cause. Officer Cook, no greater thought can be uttered except to say you were very humble, honest and maintained your dignity and integrity through thick and thin. Whatever the citizens of Dade County have to say it can only be that you were a gallant and resourcefully brave person. To stand toe to toe, face to face with evil, you can't say much more. Your legacy which you humbly attained is being reliably honored and saluted for you my neighbor, friend and hero meant the world in strength and in resolve. Rest in peace. God does avenge the evil that costs His servants their lives. He passes final judgment on those who willfully and heinously commit violence. No one escapes being judged. Everyone has their time. The righteous, their deeds flow like a river.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

December 2, 2015

With effort and efficiency were you afforded the chance to make a success of yourself, Officer Cook. No one was disappointed. Though, the tragedy of losing you at such a young age with more left to accomplish has sent goose bumps up and down the ranks and with your family. They know you were a hero. We comprehend you were a hero. Your character and valor speak louder than anything. You were a blessed man and a devout servant for the people as God directed your every move. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. Your soul lights up those dark blue skies and drives away the gloom for all this wickedness. Contentment leads to laziness, a trait no officer shall possess.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

December 2, 2015

Faithfulness and preservation. Fruition triumphs over futility. So it goes to reason that honesty is still any law enforcement professional's best policy. Above all, one must stay dignified and carry themselves with unimpeachable integrity. All the right ingredients in your life and during your career, Officer Cook. police departments are not looking for style points nor are they looking for an officer's magnetism. Rather, they observing the composure and general character of that one committed officer. For all of the residents in and around the venues of Dade County who knew you, Officer Cook, to be dependable and reliable. You stay above in God's heaven patrolling His golden streets and down here we will cherish your memory, which like your wonderfully precious soul will be forever saluted. Commitment, courage and the bravery to fight through battles of evil are how we remember our heroes and heroines. Life is not a dream. It is what you make of your God given opportunities. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

December 2, 2015

It takes the proper frame of mind and inner strength to be able to battles any and all forces of violence. No matter who or what type of issue comes up police officers must stay focused and attentive on all matters at hand. One of the best humbly speaking, yourself, Officer Cook, a man of pride and resiliency who stay on the trail of achieve like no other. You were born to lead, wise beyond your years and gifted where not all recruits are cut out to deal with difficult tasks they may encounter. But, your charming personality, polite disposition, honesty and integrity remain among the reasons you have been and will continue to be honored and saluted for outstanding bravery in the line of duty. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. We respect what Dade County citizens knew already about you. You were a supremely righteous man who served with every bone in your body. Only justice and fairness reigned down when you patrolled, Officer Cook. The truth and nothing but the truth. Thank the Lord your oath meant something, as well as the uniform and badge you wore with grace and humbleness.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

December 1, 2015

I did visit your grave today and someone left some nice flowers. Officer Cook, you were a remarkable man. A loyal and fruitful servant. A fearless man whose vision of honor and excellence helped you see through the wickedness that still resides in Dade County. You'll stay within our hearts and thoughts as a man of courage, dignity and integrity. The type of character a person maintains generally is indicative of how they will be successful or not. Let your legacy of heroism and valor stay among your peers, friends and family members who were privileged to have to known and loved you. You were the epitome of greatness and humility personified. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

December 1, 2015

We toast life's achievements, we salute life's heroes. We pause and reflect back on the good nature and humility of a true servant of God and of a very decent man. A man who grew up and became a police officer. A gentleman who grew up and lived by the truth of honesty that flowed from his lips. A poised person who calmly and diligently served all mankind with grace and integrity. Let dignity and honor rule our lives, for if this stopped happening heaven help our society. Officer Cook, as a true believer of the golden rule and of a solid upbringing by your parents, we remember you. We challenge others to act accordingly with morals and ethics as you so faithfully did. You performed your duties with sense and with a purpose. Some of us try to pursue, it's how you arrive there that counts. You maintained compliance along with practicing care and concern. Your legacy stays implanted in us all and those that knew you were humbly blessed. A true Godsend surely patrols God's golden streets. The beat you now undertake is paved by those who persevered and were patient. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

November 30, 2015

Today being your birthday, wow, the years have really come and gone. Thirty-six years later is a rather long time. But looking back, as a devoted and caring professional, Officer Cook, your mettle, valor and honesty were and continue to be appreciated. You brought believable intellect, resolve and resourceful service to all Dade County residents. Determination and a yearning along with a thirst and passion for more knowledge. Never to be forgotten. I apologize for not visiting your grave today, God willing tomorrow morning after some pick ups I will stop and offer a small humble prayer for a humble and cherished legend of a hero. Commitment, charisma, consideration and character count the most. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

November 30, 2015

Changes in life require the utmost caution, for one never really knows how green those pastures from afar are. Police officers have to be ready, willing and able to adapt to newer enhancements that may help make their careers a bit easier to accomplish that for which they undertook a solemn oath to both serve and to protect. You would be amazed a all the changes that have taken place in Dade County since your sacrifice, Officer Cook. It;s a crying shame you could not personally witness these enhancements, but you'll always be a part of them through your beloved soul. It will always stay illuminated. A legacy of heroism, quality in character, bravery and unwavering commitment to pride and excellence. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. You remain cherished, admired and well thought of in all police circles and within all professional walks of life. You chose a career and performed both in an outstanding and most humble fashion.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

November 29, 2015

To make a mistake and to forgive is divine. Lately as sad as the very violence that took your life, Officer Cook, the city of Chicago is going through protests. Why? Because one of their officers shot a young man sixteen times, though the officer has been charged with first degree murder. We, the great residents of Dade County are indeed thankful for a superior officer like you and for displaying incredible resiliency, resolve and honesty. Your dignity and integrity along with your stellar courage, commitment and character won't ever be overlooked. You remain cherished, faithful and loyal up and over what was called for on May 16, 1979. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. As I leave for my Sunday morning constitutional around North Miami Beach, your community where you grew up and thrived I'll think about your positive accomplishments that have continued enriching mankind. A sacrifice made and all the salutes of valor to stay everlasting. If that officer is acquitted of those serious charges, heaven help the people and the police department of the Windy City. There will be more than a harsh wind blowing outside not just by Lake Michigan.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

November 29, 2015

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