Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

The lines of clean speech and proper communication must stay open for professional business seven days a week and for twenty-four hours a day. It's very essential for any and all police officers because of the nature of their work and job performance when dealing with the public. You were a master at speaking and in calming people down, Officer Cook, the Central District as does your whole department and the folks you so passionately served owe you a grateful thank you. Thank you for being a vital and a vibrant part of this community for twenty-five years, six of which you served with dedication and distinction. Your humility, honesty, dignity and integrity all went hand in hand when you were out on your patrols. How else shall we the people be one? One man can't get the job done alone, but with a combined team effort, the results then speak for themselves. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. Your resourcefulness, your renounced manner of professionalism spoke and still does to this day resonates loudly and clear.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

March 30, 2015

Since police officers are often called upon to settle disputes quietly and peacefully, it makes perfect sense to just walk away from any trouble. You were said to be an excellent officer, Officer Cook, especially when dealing with domestic issues. Though we all know that officers are thoroughly trained to handle any and all issues that come their way. No matter the time of day, afternoon or evening hours, they must be on guard and ready to act. It is their dignity, honor and integrity that is always placed on the line as well as their life and the residents whom they must serve and protect in order for serenity, calmness and peace to take hold. Your resolve my neighbor, friend and hero, your valor and bravery may never be questioned, for it was your heroically humane actions on May 16, 1979, that saved at least seven lives, your colleagues and the proud citizens of Dade County who have had their lives enhanced by your outstandingly humble service. Police officers as we know never have any dull moments, yours, Officer Cook, were superbly supreme, we all are very proud of your life and career all of which are now a shining part of your both stellar legacy and character. Both to continually be saluted and honored in dignity for the individual you grew up to become. The goals and aspirations realized, now it's time for us to awake and rise to the occasion as you had done for those of us many times over. Rest in peace.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

March 30, 2015

When you have to be cunning, return to total integrity as soon as possible. Police officers often have to deal with special circumstances as this is a part of a job and profession that demands the utmost calm, care, compassion and consideration. By all accounts you were the quintessential police officer, Officer Cook, when it came to bravery, honor, dignity, devotion, etc., you name it you were always available to lend a hand and to pitch in whenever called upon. May 16, 1979 was one of forty-two tragically sad days for the Metro-Dade Police Department, nonetheless we honor your life, career and enthusiastic pursuits in life. Your vigor, your gallantry has allowed people to prosper and aspire to whatever they channel their physical emotions into making this a better world. Heroes and heroines are the brave souls who we have to be grateful for them having taken on a daunting task. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. Challenges still encircle us, keep channeling your beautiful light down upon us.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

March 29, 2015

People come across other folks from all walks of life. All work different jobs, perform various professions. Police officers come across all types of individuals, some cheerful, some downtrodden. And some with troubles to last a lifetime. Public servants perform dangerous jobs where they risk their lives in the face of perils and pitfalls. They work around the clock, in sunny and hot weather and in cool and misty conditions. It is their very task at hand to keep the peace and unity of those citizens whose lives depend on their awareness and honesty, dignity/ and stellar integrity. Officer Cook, you were just the right person for the challenges that awaited you out on the streets of Dade County. Sadly, officers have to calm people whose emotions become frayed. You stood in there. Your character and boldness, bravery and unwavering commitment shall never be forgotten by Dade County its residents and your department. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

March 29, 2015

I heard Karen that you had stopped by your mother-in-law, Mrs. Julia Cook's home sometime in 2009. You and Nancy and Gina were there. I found out through reading Dr. Willbanks book, "Forgotten Heroes" that your late husband, Officer William C. Cook, grew up in North Miami Beach, Florida. This is where I too grew up around the corner on NE 6th Avenue and 179th Drive. Close enough to 630 NE 170th Street where the Cook's lived. I showed your niece, Gina the picture of Officer Cook and started sobbing like a baby. I remembered all too well what happened that day of May 16, 1979, did not know he had a partner that day or that he grew up near my family. My dad, my he too rest in peace was a longtime New York City Police Officer. Officer Cook, you shall be saluted and honored for your valor, distinction and dignity since honor and integrity are the lead in and the necessary traits to a fundamentally proud and successful career. May you rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. If I had been there in your mother's home that day there probably would not have been enough boxes of Kleenex tissue to go around. One day in September, 2010, I was driving in NMB and saw a yellow car and a wooden board in front with a cross swaying in the breeze. I stopped by to chat and inquired if he was Officer Cook's nephew, Justin Miller he said yes and I asked if I could send a letter to Mrs. Cook. He said sure he would give it to her. Five days later I received a very touching and a most beautiful hand written letter from your ninety-five year-old mother-in-law at our Hallandale Beach home. I still have the envelope and the letter today. How very touching to take the time that she did and send a stranger a letter, she referred to me as her friend and neighbor. I remembered at least one reporter who covered your husband's services and Inspector's Funeral at St. Mary's Cathedral and the visitation that Friday at the Bennett and Ulm Funeral Chapel on NW 7th Avenue and NW 152nd Street. His name was Mr. Steve Dawson from the old station, WCKT TV Channel 7, NBC now known as WSVN Channel 7, Fox TV. Also Karen, May 19, 1979, the day all of Dade County paid their final respects to your late husband, Officer Cook, was my parents last anniversary together, my dad sadly passed, April 26, 1980. My mother was buried on November 30, 2003, Officer Cook would have turned fifty years old that day, she passed that Thanksgiving day Night. Justin looked just like his heroic uncle, your wonderfully humane and boldly caring husband. I'll always remember his life and career, Officer Cook, you were a righteous and pious gentleman and an inspiration to all who serve for a just cause. Evil one day will be completely eradicated.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

March 28, 2015

In life a person's facial expressions can begin to tell a part of how one is feeling. We go through all the emotions. Of joy, of sadness, happiness, prosperity and triumph. Police officers have these same feelings, it's just that they have to hide their feelings at times when they go out on their patrols. The citizens have to be understanding and realize that whatever these brave, courageous and valiant men and women who perform a dangerous and stressful profession do is for our benefit. They work under all conditions as you did for six years humanely and humbling, Officer Cook. You were a down to earth person who spoke the truth and possessed a stellar character all of which was central in how you maintained the dignity, integrity and honor to carry on with your assignments. People knew you, they gravitated to you, it was with your command and tone of voice that struck the right chord with those you served and protected. Your comrades understood your wisdom, maturity and leadership skills all of which were highly documented were the springboards of your success. Your sacrifice on behalf of all Dade County and the entire police nation underscores what it means to both live and in turn lead a life and pursue a career based on sound morals and ethics that are demanded from all public servants who are held accountable. You were reliable and responsible just as your loving wife, Karen, who was a registered nurse responsible for the lives of her patients. The lives of all citizens were a valued and vibrant part of both your lives. Both of you will not be forgotten. Wherever you now reside, Karen, you should know from the bottom of my heart, your late husband, Officer William C. Cook, will always be fondly saluted for his service and devotion. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. My family has visited his grave and offers a small prayer for his soul. I go there often and I was the gentleman who wrote the letter to the cemetery asking that they replace the badge that somehow was taken off of his gravestone. I would love to meet you someday if you ever come down to Florida. You should enjoy a blessed life and a Happy Easter along with the entire Cook, Tidwell and Wilkerson Families. From my family to yours as we get ready for the Passover holiday. Be well and take care. To you Gina and your family, good luck on your move wherever that may take you, regards to your husband and your children.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

March 28, 2015

Even in spiritual affairs one needs to keep climbing that great big ladder that extends all the way up to the heavens above where you, Officer Cook, now patrol God's golden streets. All police officers are supposed to utilize their police academy in a just and fitting manner. Stubbornness is a negative trait which can have a very last harmful effect on all their official duties. But, it was your honesty, inherent dignity and integrity which made you both a better person and an even more so, an excellent police officer. There can never be any questions regarding your loyalty, devotion, desire, determination or dedication. You worked each watch in Dade County exceedingly hard to achieve the right results that have in turn lead to the prosperity, security, peace and unity among all residents. Your bravery, courage, valor, grace and gallantry are now and forever a living part of your heroic legacy as a Dade County police hero. You will be saluted and remembered for your response that day of May 16, 1979, when you went and answered the call of duty undaunted by the challenge that was placed your way. Saving seven lives, your colleagues and those civilians who will be forever grateful. Your life and humbleness has been continued and accentuated by your loving family members who have missed you very much, but they know and we know you are resting in peace my neighbor, friend and hero along with your loving father, Charles. God has you both in His palms for safekeeping. You maintained a vigilance, now Our Creator has sheltered you where no harm will ever come your way. The Lord rewards His most righteous servants of which you were.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

March 28, 2015

Police officers have to stand ready and be on guard whenever the face uncertain situations. They may be the most dire, they may be a woman about to give birth. Whatever, the rigorous training, planning and intense scrutiny and preparation they undergo in the police academy gets them ready for what is out there on the streets waiting to confuse, confront and confound them. emotions run high, tensions run rampant, but whatever, you did your job with integrity, dignity and honesty all while maintaining firmness and fairness, two words that can get lost in the translation of service and protection. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. You were a master strategist and planner, who better to serve in a role of leading other comrades. God bless our community and the Metro-Dade Police Department for bringing you on board to join their ranks.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

March 27, 2015

In police work there is no getting away from normal human emotions. All people including police officers need to be sensitive and caring to the residents they both serve and protect. How on else can one live and prosper, thrive and cherish all that is given to them if not for our honorable, dignified and highly talented and motivated men and women of the many law enforcement communities around the country. and of course you were among the many heroic and brave officers who stood in there face to face to confront evil. Everyone has feelings. You were a sincerely compassionate, loyal and considerate gentleman and police officer. Officer Cook, your swiftness, your alacrity, your concern and humbly humane mannerisms are the very reason as to why all Dade County citizens then and now are afforded the ability to live in peace, serenity and in a free environment. Despite the inner emotions of a very beleaguered and troubled young man who took the life of a treasured angel in yourself, Officer Cook, we the people, we the Metro-Dade Police Department shall be one as this is inscribed on your gravestone. It represents the foundations and cornerstones of a very well lived life and outstanding career that was headed to the top of the police ranks. You'll never be forgotten ever, that is guaranteed! Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. Your life meant something and it shall be remembered and faithfully saluted forever as will your legacy among those who sacrifice their lives for a noble and just cause. The entire police world stands united whenever adversity rears its ugliness.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

March 27, 2015

Police officers always need to be acutely aware of the public, its needs and feelings. That is why they undergo training from time to time to stay on top of things. Facial expressions and body language are ways people show their pain and suffering. By being the kind and caring police officer that you were, Officer Cook, it's a bit easier to comprehend why you performed your duties in such an outstanding manner. Although, honesty, dignity and integrity along with stellar character help weed out those recruits whose destiny is not in law enforcement. My neighbor, friend and hero, your upbringing and humbleness still resonates as loudly this day as it did back in your day. Rest in peace. You were as compassionate and truly as treasured a gentleman as there could be. Your legacy brings the hope and desire that if you work hard good things will happen.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

March 26, 2015

Do not boast nor act sarcastically when helping to correct the behavior of others. In police work, sometimes a stern talking to is the way to get a point across to any officer who serves and protects those citizens in order for dignity, unity and liberty to persevere and travel down its proper course. You were an officer and a gentleman who was raised with the proper morals and character so those who served with you, Officer Cook, knew you would be fiercely loyal and dedicated to profession. Honor, integrity, respect go hand in hand and nothing less should be expected from our bravest of public servants. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. Your dignified and poignant tones set the table so to speak for your humble life and career. You are our hero, we cherish your memory. When boldness counted the most it was you, Officer Cook, who could be relied upon.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

March 26, 2015

When we can stop, realize and ponder all that God gives us, if we have reasonably good health, then we have everything. We know there are people all around the world in poor health, starving and living in very poor conditions. You have to pause and reflect on all the good that Our Creator bestows upon us. Hard work and perseverance pays dividends down the road to success, not necessarily fortune and fame. Non-selfish love enables you to have patience. something you had an abundance of, Officer Cook, my neighbor, friend and hero. And yet you had so much more to give back to society, though for the last nearly thirty-six years in eternity you have done one extra special important mission and that has been to walk a beat on God's golden streets where numerous heroes and heroines from the past have patrolled as they watch over those brave, decent and honest officers who carry on your profession. An important task with rewards and yet risks and perils that must be observed while they are serving, enhancing and fortifying each different community where only the bold, the courageous and those so dignified dare to go. Humility and humanity went hand in hand wherever you went, Officer Cook. Your calming voice of wisdom, reason and compassion spoke whenever you entered a particular venue. That day of May 16, 1979, your family, your colleagues and your friends got to witness the loving and caring side of your stellar character punctuated with an equally outstanding performance in the line of duty. Saving seven lives, your comrades, those civilians whose very lives relied upon your swiftness to respond, what more can anyone say other then well done, our cherished and beloved faithful hero. Karen's patience with her patients and your patience and devotion to residents looking for just a chance to survive and to pursue their dreams. You lived yours, Officer Cook, you should have been given more years to give us what was humbly implanted within your heart and soul, that was an abundance of humor coupled with leadership abilities second to none and the maturity and knowledge to match. Rest in peace. The light still shines as brightly now as it did when you were first born. Your humbleness and sense of gratitude are all anyone needs to know about the gentleman who proudly wore the Metro-Dade police uniform with the badge number 1641 on it. We can always ponder why does God take good people at such a young age back to His shelter, while there are those who perpetrate evil who walk the streets as though nothing ever happened? A lot to think about. You thought. You taught. You lived a proper life and were an outstanding public servant. Never a bad word. Why oh why? The man who took your life, why oh why what was he thinking about and he nearly took your colleagues' lives. God has all the answers we just think, plan, whatever we do with our days, months and years. The years pass just that quickly like the blink of an eye. The sadness stays fixed and yet you would want us to march on, Officer Cook. Somehow or another that just seems so unfair to you for what you gave up in order for us to continue life's pursuits. I will always say a prayer and keep you in my thoughts Mrs. Cook. You know your son was very special, I know it and Dade County knows it. The question is how do we carry on his legacy? All of which was borne from stellar character and a sound upbringing never to be forgotten.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

March 25, 2015

People in life sometimes want to lend a hand to others. The person tells them a story, they may start to cry or laugh. All of God's helpers may go out of their way to lend an assist. We are supposed to judge people with loving kindness and favorably too. Yet a person who is the epitome of evil, we know they bad, then we should keep a distance from them. What our role is to see the good in the bad and the bad in the good. To be able to differentiate fact from fiction. As you possessed the innate and God given ability, Officer Cook, to use your wisdom, your leadership and resourcefulness to deduce how to treat all people. Police officers sometimes and what could turn out to be a very bad decision not to be on guard, protecting not only themselves, but the community at large that deserves their undivided time and dutiful attention. You were a positive force among your peers, you were very humble, brave and dignified, to go along with your only honorable intentions. The world was robbed of a great gentleman, your family was left to mourn your heroic life and career all graced and accentuated with devotion, desire, determination and an everlasting dedication to enhance in unity, peace and with liberty those who carry on with your watch. Your watch was central to the perseverance of all Dade County citizens who salute you for your unwavering and unselfish commitment to excellence. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. The examples set by men and women who lay their lives down sets the tone for exactly how we should politely remember. Their humbleness, their admiration and mutual respect is the cornerstone of their legacies of which they will never be forgotten. That day, Officer Cook, May 16, 1979, was a day of sorrow and yet a a moment in police history in all of Dade County when we take a moment to raise a salute for your boldness to act as proudly as anyone could be for your life and what you meant to this entire country and world.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

March 25, 2015

A person whose main focus is self-improvement and a yearning for perfection will always review their personal conduct to revisit what needs correction. Always performing with the proper motivation and objectives when dealing with the general public would sure help in getting the jobs at hand done efficiently the first time out. Police officers are those honorable, dignified and intensely loyal men and women who are supposed to review their actions, as they operate under the guises of ethics, morals and certain department standards which are mandatory in order to insure, safety of the people they serve and protect and to be able to operate smoothly. You were of the many humble, trusted and respected officers of your generation, Officer Cook, as I have stated before there never were questions regarding your implementations of anything you did to do the assignments at the moment superbly and in an outstanding manner. Bravery, courage, grace, valor and stellar character and integrity were emblazoned on your uniform you proudly wore and the badge you carried with the epitome of wisdom, maturity and leadership. You were a joy to be around and for those who were humbly honored to serve and to partner alongside of you, what else could be said? If only they had those side panels in your day, whose knows thirty-six years later what might have been? You are the hero that we all look up to now and forever for eternal advice as you patrol God's golden streets where no harm will ever again befall you. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. No public servant is perfect, what we strive for is a performance that befits the character of those who take a solemn affirmation to serve and to protect. It is the honesty, dignity, integrity and humility that counts more than anything else.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

March 24, 2015

I met an officer at a local Winn Dixie and told her to be safe. I said those side panels she wears is because of your unselfish bravery, courage and valor. Your demeanor and innovative ways spoke volumes as was your candor, care and consideration for all residents you served and protected equally. Everything your beloved family members accomplishes can be traced right back to your God given abilities, talents, humble and humane honesty, dignity and stellar integrity so necessary for any police officer to carry out the rigors of a very demanding profession. No matter who I meet, no matter who we speak to you'll always be fondly saluted and remembered for your grace and gallantry. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. Your commitment to pride, resourcefulness and excellence to the call of duty on May 16, 1979, will make your heroic actions and legacy among Dade County police heroes and heroines remain even more humble. Truly a treasured soul now patrolling God's golden streets. Shine on.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

March 24, 2015

A person must try to climb the spiritual ladder of success of daily. Staying stuck on the bottom rung does not produce the best results. The world is changed everyday by our very caring and wonderfully talented women and men of the law enforcement profession. A gentleman and a persevering police officer. Officer Cook, you lead others by your examples on how to act and react with both a passion and enhanced compassion. That ladder that now leads to God's golden streets has sure been lined with many heroes and heroines undaunted by the many perils that they had to face each time on their watches. Residents were reassured by your loving, humble and most respected presence all of which is greatly missed today as it was back then. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero, keep climbing, now that God has set your soul free, it too can soar to the highest of heights.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

March 23, 2015

Police officers who are held to a higher standard need to have the proper motivations when dealing with any situation that comes across their radar screens. Whenever you dealt with anyone, Officer Cook, you utilized your integrity and honesty, that when channeled together with your dignity helped you champion the causes of goodwill among all mankind. Dade County residents can surely live in peace and quiet because of your super and outstanding service and protection. Men and women who lay their lives down in bravery, valor and courage all come from the exact fabric that is demanded from our faithfully loyal and devoted public servants. Growing up in a first class and top quality home certainly accelerated your learning process and elevated your knowledge, wisdom,maturity and leadership skills. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

March 23, 2015

Being sensitive and careful when showing someone they made a mistake is quite relevant to all police academy recruits, at least when they are in training, studying and learning the ropes of what it takes to become an excellent public servant. Bravery, courage and valor have not yet taken shape fully. But, honor, dignity, integrity, reliability and responsibility certainly must start taking shape. You were a sensible, caring and respectable police officer, Officer Cook, no qualms at all. Your superiors never had a worry when you went out on your patrols of Dade County streets insuring the safety, security and serenity of all individuals. You responded to that scene like a lion with your partner that day, Reserve Officer Scott Lincoln, your commitment to pride, honor and excellence is the legacy and benchmark for which you'll be forever honored as a hero and as a treasured soul. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. Mistakes can be costly, catching them before you get out on those streets which at times can be unforgiving would be a great assist to any brave, courageous and valiant man or woman who expose themselves to the risks, perils and dangers at hand. Your leadership, consideration and compassion was super. Only one-hundred percent full concentration and effort given at all times.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

March 22, 2015

Sometimes in life one must speak an untruth to appease the feelings of someone. If you need to speak this way, one should phrase their statement in the least dishonest fashion. Offending people can have harmful physical and financial effects. Police officers aside from being faithful, loyal, honorable, dignified and having to carry themselves with integrity have to be very cautious on how they address someone. But, since you spoke only the truth, Officer Cook, this would never have entered your mind. Because you treated everyone fairly and with respect, this is the reason why Dade County then and presently can live in unity, peace and in freedom. The changes in the landscape are so vast if you here today, you would not believe your eyes. The troubled young man who took your life and promising career should have opened his eyes and realized how detrimental his actions were to your family, department and to our society in general. There will never be a doubt, never be any second guessing regarding your stellar character and humble mannerisms. Your thoughtfulness and resourcefulness to commitment of duty and the heroism you displayed on May 16, 1979, will always be fondly remembered. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

March 22, 2015

Sometimes in life the only way to success is to fall humbly back a bit. Failure is not a bad word. Wickedness and heinous are terribly bad words. Police officers just like any other woman or man out there try to adjust their compasses so as not to cross paths with these two obstacles that could hinder them in any from properly performing their assignments. Our tendencies are to do the best we can and let Our Creator guide us through the tough moments. Being a man of faith and resolve, Officer Cook, you were able to steer clear from evil for most of your life and during most of your professional career at the Metro-Dade Police Department. Five minutes of evil which took your life in which you made the ultimate sacrifice on behalf of Dade County and its residents should not and will never undermine nor underscore your fierce determination, honesty, bravery and courage you exhibited in a manner that is called for by any police officer. You displayed your grit, your dedication and desire to make unity, liberty and peace a reality for all mankind with the most humblest of intentions. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. Success and failure are directed by God, it is up to us to take firm hold of its steering wheel, for as we know life itself is one big test and you, Officer Cook, passed yours with flying colors. No one will ever doubt your heroism nor your legacy which is firmly etched on the marble walls at Miami's Tropical Park and in Washington, D. C. You are saluted and remembered for your passion, compassion, caring and consideration. Twenty-five years and a good name to support all the goodness you did in this world. It will never be tarnished.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

March 21, 2015

Speaking politely should be a way of life as well as being respectful. Unfortunately, not for everyone. We would like to ponder and in our thoughts and hearts be positive that most people are nice and kind. It is a way to accomplish and to achieve so much more. When trying to influence individuals to become more motivated speaking in soft and calm tones usually works. For police officers such as yourself, Officer Cook, it was your way in life and how you were brought up. You spoke the truth. You performed your role as a public servant very well with dignity, honor and integrity. Just because the world is made up of so many different people this does not make them all evil. This enemy of our bravest and most valiant men and women lurks like a shark in the water ready to pounce upon its prey. We the ordinary citizens are its prey and you my neighbor, friend and hero served and protected us through your grace, gallantry and perseverance. You kept the peace, speaking kindly while cooling down those whose emotions became a little frayed. Rest in peace. Your inspirations and devout aspirations have contributed to the enhancements in and around the Dade County where you patrolled for six very loyal and faithful years. Your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten. Your righteous character shall remain anchored to your heroic and most humble legacy. A gentleman of humanity and of humility not often seen. God surely has one treasured angel now and forever in His arms for safekeeping. Keep watching over us and making sure we converse properly to and with one another.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

March 21, 2015

Since the thoughts of all police officers need to be on a higher plateau than most people who labor, who work at most jobs difficult or not, they must keep away from negative influences which could blind them from doing their jobs properly. The ideals of an elevated must always be beyond reproach. This was the basis of your life and police career, Officer Cook and its roots began in California and then headed east to good old North Miami Beach, Florida where your parents settled with your sister, Nancy and yourself. Fresh and new ideas are always welcome in the line of police work, at least anything to lessen the stress, but yet honor, dignity and integrity must be at the forefront. You were a good man, Officer Cook, a family man dedicated to your wife and parents. I know after your father passed, Charles, may he rest in peace, you made it point to stop and check on your mother's well being. A good son. A humble and faithfully loyal servant the likes of which Dade County may not see again for awhile. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. The light of your wonderful soul shines on in desire, determination and in devotion. It steers your family members in all their pursuits. They can all be proud while shedding tears over your loss. A loss for the entire world. A loss for mankind and the ideals by which we live and construct our lives and careers. Everything with your life and career was destined to rise, your police file was filled with awards for excellent work, it would have humbly increased if you were given more time to fulfill that for which we are created.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

March 20, 2015

Since all police officers, there are no exceptions to this rule need to possess the same personal portfolios of common sense, honesty, dignity, integrity and great care, reliability and responsibility, it's truly sad when I read of officers being charged and arrested almost everyday because of something they have done that is not proper conduct. Like all citizens we have a code of ethics, morals and principles which when adhered to bring relief to those individuals they serve and protect. You were a very outstanding public servant, Officer Cook. You were what most people would refer to as a loyal and trustworthy law enforcement official. Seeing that you were a cheerful and positively upbeat gentleman, your mission in this world was made a tiny bit less stressful, still very stressful and always occupied with doing good deeds. Your heroism on May 16, 1979, was superb and humanely outstanding. To stand in front of evil face to face when a simple I surrender would have been preferred would not have escalated the situation beyond what started out as a domestic issue between a man and his girlfriend. Five minutes before your shift was going to finish, there you were Officer Cook, to the rescue of your colleagues and the civilians involved. We channel, at least endeavor to utilize our traits in a positive influence. Your influence around the confines of Dade County thirty-six years ago has given those residents a new lease on life to be able to live in peace, unity and freely. All it takes is one small step to move things forward in a proper manner. And for this, Officer Cook, we the people are eternally grateful. Your stellar character and shining legacy remain forever as do the memories of you which your beloved family has to treasure and to cherish forever. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. Since police work is not for everyone, those who are interested need to make sure, make real certain you deliver the right personal file to the department before applying.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

March 20, 2015

Be ever so watchful to not only accomplish something daily, but to speak only in sincere and honest tones. Whatever you set your mind to do try and achieve your goal as this is the one way to make our society a better place for all to live in peace, liberty and in unity. A person's upbringing is the best signal of how they will turn out. It was in your home, Officer Cook, where rules were followed and clean and proper speech dominated. A rational individual understands the meaning of this, some others need a little direction and prodding. But since dignity and integrity went together throughout your life and career with the Metro-Dade Police Department, it is fairly simple to comprehend why you became what you became and how well you performed your job. A hero or heroine is not only based on their career, but how they lived their lives and how they truly personified the meaning of making the world a really better place. Your faith, desire, loyalty and humility are served you quite well and it would be prudent for today's police officers to follow or to emulate your ways. a little research and reading of your life and story in the book, "Forgotten Heroes" will begin to shed some light. A natural born leader whose knowledge and maturity served as an inspiration to all others, may you rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. A good listener whose compassion bubbled over with a calming enthusiasm. You helped others, Officer Cook, Lord knows we could use some of your heavenly advice. Your boldness, your swiftness saved your comrades as well as those civilians who were under fire. You answered the calls whenever you were needed, May 16, 1979, serves as one of forty-two examples of professional police bravery, courage and valor.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

March 19, 2015

All people must be good listeners. All jobs and professions require the highest of morals and integrity. You were a good officer at reassuring people, Officer Cook. Your sense of endearment, your engaging personality coupled with your wisdom, faith and courage led you to serve and to protect all Dade County citizens with an abundant sense of reason and responsibility. A humbly tall job for most any person let alone a police officer who needs their faculties to produce the top results. You gave everything on May 16, 1979 and much more before that day and there will be no doubt regarding your stellar honor, principles and outstanding character which all is a part of your heroic legacy. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. You listened to others, you cared, you shared, your consideration was well beyond that of others.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

March 19, 2015