Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Everyone has inclinations, but good men such as yourself Officer Cook, repress them as offerings as gratitude for God's many kindnesses. when a person confesses his faults, in other words,that what he had done or what he had intended to do was wrong, and he does not continue to cover up his motives and to justify his acts, then this is truly the highest honor due to God. When a man orders his way aright, which means he assesses his ways, he will be rewarded in the end with the Salvation of God. If ones conducts their life as you properly as you did my neighbor, friend and hero Officer Cook, then you will be showered with God's salvation and continue your path of perfection. One who walks perfectly in his ways and a word of truth is in his heart will forever be rewarded. The kindness you displayed will forever bless us as your soul ascends God's heavenly ladder. Rest in perfect peace along with your dad, Charles and keep watch over us in a land where evil still runs its gamut. Every moment you lived and protected us we were blessed beyond imagination and now your memory serves as a legacy in that it still protects us always. Men of wisdom like yourself have made a big difference in how we carry ourselves daily. Happy is the man who hears and ignores a hundred evils pass him by. Because of your crucial role in discouraging evil and fighting the forces behind it, this has made our situations seem much easier to tolerate. Wise men always seem to figure out the secrets to success versus failure and Officer Cook, for twenty-five years of meaningful diligence in that aspect you could be counted on. Your attention to detail was far superior than most of those officers you worked with and your partner, Officer DeGenova a survivor of that evil will too be remembered as you are for now being afraid to put their lives on the line to serve and protect Dade County citizens. The commendations you both received only reinforce the good work of two wonderful officers. I can see why you were close friends off duty as well. Never will my family and I forget your gallantry and fortitude.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 25, 2012

A very fine saying: What is mine is yours and what is yours is yours that person is considered righteous. Officer Cook, you were a person, a loving husband, devoted son, beloved brother and if you had lived to see your two great-nieces and great-nephew, you would have loved them like no other. A doting uncle for sure. Your refined character always displayed thanks and appreciation and never held a grudge. Your family was one to give to a less fortunate person and when you married Karen, the two of you continued that upstanding trait. The career you embarked upon was one of diligence and constant training in dealing with all types of dilemmas that officers confront daily. Your work required a sharp mind and physical agility to handle the rigors of the job. The community that you so dearly loved and wanted to impart your wisdom into will never lose sight of the ultimate sacrifice you made on its behalf to make it safer and more prosperous for its citizens. We as a nation need to be more caring and sharing and less selfish as we get ready to elect either Mitt Romney or keep President Obama for another four years. As humble as you were, moving up the ranks of the Metro-Dade Police Department would have helped the morale of its officers and you probably would have been able to weed out the dishonesty from within the ranks. you were firm and when compromise was needed you could always be counted on. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero, we will try to be as benevolent as you and Karen and your families were.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 25, 2012

One hour of repentance and good deeds in this world is better than all the life of the next world and one hour of bliss in this world is better than all the life in this world. Officer Cook, as very devout a person that you were, you brought much joy to your parents who gave you and your sister, Nancy, the proper upbringing that would enable you to be successful in all your pursuits. The outstanding career you forged as a Metro-Dade Police Officer is the perfect justification for those that came across you to be thankful for all that you did in making this world and community a safer place. God is blessing your very special soul for the sacrifice of May 16, 1979 that was made by you coming to the aid of your fellow officers. You brought laughter and joy in lighthearted moments and a serious approach in situations that called for tactical reasoning. Every living being has a unique intrinsic value and that value you had will never be forgotten. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero, your passing to this day will forever leave a gaping hole in the hearts of those who cherished you. I can be in bed at night, and all of a sudden, I think about you and start crying. This is perfectly normal and praiseworthy. Praise the Lord for He is good, His mercy endures forever. Every test that you took and passed with flying colors is what made you the police officer you were. Supremely confident, yet humble in how you approached dealing with people from all backgrounds in calming them.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 24, 2012

All men are equal before God. Prejudice does not fit into the religious tenets of life. It is evil and irrational and results in self-destruction. baseless bloodshed and hatred do not go hand in hand. To love your neighbor as yourself, and to put your self in his place and act accordingly is the saying that carries a lot of weight. My neighbor, friend and hero, Officer Cook, this is truly the most honorable way you lived your life. The person who wantonly took your life was depressed, a loner, a deserter of the Army. Why he chose to do what he carried out, we may never know. I truly believe he received his just punishment and you my friend are reaping the rewards in the next world along with your dad, Charles. You were a precious son, cherished brother, loving uncle and devoted husband to your wife, Karen. Belief in human brotherhood has stood as a mantle for ages. You treated every person regardless of race, background, creed and ethnicity equally. You sacrificed your very being trying to overcome the evil this person was set on carrying out. The world is a better place officer Cook because of what you represented as a caring and loyal Metro-Dade Police Officer. The calming affect you possessed will never be forgotten. Rest in peace and we will attempt to carry on in a world where true brotherhood needs to display itself more often than not.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 22, 2012

Gather not my soul with sinners; nor my life with men of bloodshed, In whose hands is conspiracy, and whose right hand is full of bribery. As for me, I will walk in my perfect innocence, redeem me and show me favor. My foot is set on the straight path, in assemblies I will bless the name of God. Officer Cook, my neighbor, friend, and hero we can only imagine if you were with us today, the happiness, pride, honor and joy you would bring to the world. After thirty-three years it's still so hard to believe what transpired on May 16, 1979, when you and your fellow colleagues stood face to face on a hot day in Liberty City in Miami, doing what you aspired to be and tried to dispel the evil that was perpetrated by a young man, who like yourself had everything to live for. We'll never know what caused him to act he did and want to harm you and your fellow officers. There you were at age twenty-five with a beautiful wife, Karen, a nice home and the possibility of someday raising a family of your own and in a matter of a few moments, all of that was taken away from you. How sad it was and continues to be for your family, friends and colleagues who gathered to remember your heroic life and reflect upon the good deeds and terrific person that Officer William Coleman Cook, badge #1664 was. It makes me cry when I look at your picture on the Officer Down Memorial Page and from the book, "Forgotten Heroes." You grew up around the corner in North Miami Beach where my family resided. We lived on 6th Avenue and 179th Drive. My wife Holly provides childcare for infants and sometimes I'll take the little ones on a short walk past your parents home. Quite a few memories in their home to say the least. We almost rented their home, that for sure would have been quit emotional for me. I was in the home when your niece Gina and her husband Trevor and their lovely children were fixing it up for occupancy. I was kicking a soccer ball in your parents backyard with their son and your great-nephew, Legend and met your two great-nieces, Alexis and Skyler. I cried and Gina comforted me and showed me your room where you slept, studied and entertained guests. The area has changed quite today, and you may not recognize some of the changes. Sabal Palm Elementary and John F. Kennedy Middle School are still there, and I'll bet your parents used Doctors Jaffe, Allison and Cremer as your pediatricians as did my parents. Unfortunately, this is still the issue of crime and there is a security patrol twenty-four hours around the neighborhood keeping tabs on the area. There are some very nice homes in the area and there are some nice folks that still reside in North Miami Beach to this day. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero and know that you made a tremendous difference in society and the ultimate sacrifice that you made that Wednesday afternoon, May 16, 1979 will never be forgotten on my part. You were the truly honest, the most dedicated officer that wore the Metro-Dade Police uniform. The first class epitome of what it means to live your life as a hero and who never shunned nor shied away from the tough and difficult situations no matter the outcome. You made us all proud even if I never unfortunately had the distinct privilege of having met and known you. I'll take comfort in at least meeting Justin, your nephew, who you would be very proud of and Gina, your niece, a truly remarkable woman. I'll always keep your mother Mrs. Julia Cook in my prayers and likewise your sister, Mrs. Nancy Tidwell, who will forever adore you as siblings would do for each other. Pray for us Officer Cook that you and your dad, Charles now walk side by side in God's Kingdom in perfect innocence trying to help your fellow officers here in this world control the evil and stem the wanton bloodshed and baseless hatred that seems to have taken over modern society. There is still plenty of goodness and peace here in this world, we just need for you to guide us through some of the pitfalls that encircle us. Imagine if I never read that particular book, I would never have known that we were neighbors in North Miami Beach, Florida, where the motto is: "Where people care." I did remember your tragic passing, it has stuck with me to this day, the book reinforced the details of what transpired and how you lived and made the ultimate sacrifice so citizens of Metro-Dade County could be safer and enjoy the things they like to do because of forty-one others Metro officers such as yourself who answered the call to public service and were charged with protecting us from evil.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 20, 2012

Prayer is a bridge between man and God and must never be treated with indifference or lack of sincerity. prayer is the most beautiful form of human expression. It is the special gift granted to man for it is a dialogue with the Almighty. We reach out for assistance, in depths of despair, in moments of happiness, we feel grateful. We share our sorrows, our joys. It is our soul ascending to the source of all life. It is man's mind contemplating the purpose of life. Prayer opens the door to the presence of God.It is the vehicle that provides us the mental and emotional energy to face difficulties in life. It is the greatest force we can wield. It is the talent God has given us. Prayer is not a substitute for effort and work. It is the outpouring of the heart and not words implying a duty of the conscience. We trust that we may continue to merit your confidence and that we shall receive many more blessings from you in the future. For prayer to be effective, we must keep in touch with God on a regular basis. Officer Cook, as a devout person, I'm certain you and Karen remained steadfast in your beliefs in God and let him guide you both during the many happy times you shared as a couple. Those of us regret you are not here to witness many more happier times, but we realize because of special individuals such as yourself who were willing to take risks on our behalf, are watching over us and the wonderful souls of you and your dad, Charles are the guiding lights that take us on our journeys here in this world. Rest in everlasting peace my neighbor, friend and hero. Give us the spiritual energy to be as diligent and devout in prayer as you were. As I reflected in the past, Karen dedicated a stained glass window in your memory to Visitation Catholic Church where the two of you worshiped regularly, and I'm sure its parishioners will not forget an outstanding man of true faith and character.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 20, 2012

Prayer is a bridge between man ans God and must never be treated with indifference or lack of sincerity. prayer is the most beautiful form of human expression. It is the special gift granted to man for it is a dialogue with the Almighty. We reach out for assistance, in depths of despair, in moments of happiness, we feel grateful. We share our sorrows, our joys. It is our soul ascending to the source of all life. It is man's mind contemplating the purpose of life. Prayer opens the door to the presence of God.It is the vehicle that provides us the mental and emotional energy to face difficulties in life. It is the greatest force we can wield. It is the talent God has given us. Prayer is not a substitute for effort and work. It is the outpouring of the heart and not words implying a duty of the conscience. We trust that we may continue to merit your confidence and that we shall receive many more blessings from you in the future. For prayer to be effective, we must keep in touch with God on a regular basis. Officer Cook, as a devout person, I'm certain you and Karen remained steadfast in your beliefs in God and let him guide you both during the many happy times you shared as a couple. Those of us regret you are not here to witness many more happier times, but we realize because of special individuals such as yourself who were willing to take risks on our behalf, are watching over us and the wonderful souls of you and your dad, Charles are the guiding lights that take us on our journeys here in this world. Rest in everlasting peace my neighbor, friend and hero. Give us the spiritual energy to be as diligent and devout in prayer as you were. As I reflected in the past, Karen dedicated a stained glass window in your memory to Visitation Catholic Church where the two of you worshiped regularly, and I'm sure its parishioners will not forget an outstanding man of true faith and character.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 20, 2012

Officer Cook, my neighbor, friend and hero you were a man of courage, totally dedicated to your fellow human being. Your faith in Our Creator was deep and unlimited. The righteousness in you was in assisting others. You went the extra mile. You were honest with yourself, with God, and your fellowmen. Your conscience was as steady as the needle to the North Pole. You did not brag or run from responsibility. As an officer serving the public trust you understood the message of God and shared it with others. Your eyes were indeed turned upward. Bad indeed will be the day for every man when he becomes absolutely contented with the life he is living, with the thoughts he is thinking, with the deeds he is involved in. Your life as a police officer meant at times you had to be a progressive thinker and look for various ways to solve problems while on your watch. You and your family and your wife, Karen lived a truly humble and blessed life. The success you achieved was because you lived well, laughed often and loved much. You garnered the respect of your peers, and the love of children. You filled your niche and accomplished your task, you left this world better than you found it because of your unselfish willingness to sacrifice your very existence for others to enjoy the fruits in this land of opportunity. You looked for the best in others, while giving maximum effort each moment on duty. You left a shining inspiration and a cherished memory that serves as a benediction for all to partake of. Rest in peace Officer Cook, may the good name God instilled in you fortify us eternally forever more.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 20, 2012

All who occupy themselves with the affairs of the community should be engaged with them for the sake of heaven, for the merit of their fathers assists them, and their righteousness endures forever. And upon you says God, I will bestow great reward as though you had accomplished it all by yourselves. Officer Cook, my neighbor, friend and hero, you worked diligently patrolling Dade County streets and every moment on duty was utilized to the utmost to make our lives safer for us to enjoy. The sacrifice you made that fateful day, May 16, 1979 with all due diligence will never be lost nor forgotten by your peers, family or my family. Rest in peace and allow your soul to watch over us with the diligence you so courageously displayed fighting evil. You took charge of a situation and challenge and did not back down. Your bravery and valor stands as a symbol of what it means to wear the Metro-Dade Police Department uniform so proudly and the commendations you and your friend, Officer Keith DeGenova received will stand as a testimony of excellent oversight on both of your parts. He misses you and suffered brain damage defending his fellow officers. He is considered a survivor hero and I don't believe he speaks with any of his former colleagues. I think he lives in Jacksonville, Florida today and has a metal plate in his brain and wears the bullet that surgeons removed around his neck. You were truly one of his closest friends in the department and won't ever be forgotten. The city of Miami has changed dramatically since your days as an officer. You and your colleagues that day were the genuine heroes and your memory as long I'm here will always remain close to my heart. Mrs. Julia Cook, your mother will always remain a friend of my family and I'm still hoping to meet her either out in San Diego or if they bring her back to Florida for a visit.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 19, 2012

A person is raised by their parents and when they are old enough they go on their own to pursue a career, meet that perfect mate, get married and someday start a family. God provided you, Officer Cook, the impetus to go out in the world, train and become the first class law enforcement officer that you were, and meet the love of your life, your wife, Karen who was a registered nurse. Two very fine professions which require due diligence and compassion. I believed you were a man of strong character, who acted only with the highest standard of morality. A person with conviction who believes nothing in this world just happens, but rather everything is directed by Our Creator, will view each situation as coming from the "Finger of God." This Officer Cook, my neighbor, friend, and hero is the sign of your greatness as both an officer and how you occupied moments when together with Karen. That day of May 16, 1979, we saw God's hand and the lessons that your tragedy imparts on us this day. The bar you set is high, and the expectations that come with it are similar. God's hand took you on a journey to heaven to meet up with your fellow officers who like you made the supreme sacrifice and it is you and your wonderful soul that is guiding us in the right directions as we navigate through the perils of life in this world, you are receiving the blessings in the next world for all that you mastered as you navigated in your twenty-five years of a life well lived and the right way your parents raised both you and your sister, Nancy. Rest in peace and continue steering us in the correct path, along with your father, Charles and I'll continue keeping your mom, Mrs. Julia Cook in my thoughts and prayers. Even though you and Karen never raised a family, I know the two of you would have made excellent parents. Sometimes we just have to trust God and His ways.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 18, 2012

The way of one to live their lives is by self-control. Life would be a perpetual flea hunt if one were obliged to run down all the innuendo, insinuations and misrepresentations which are uttered against them. One who slanders or speaks badly of their fellow man only suffer in the end. There is nothing better than a good tongue and nothing worse than an evil one.Death and life are in the power of the tongue: And they that indulge it shall eat the fruit thereof. Officer Cook, not only were you raised in an honorable manner by your loving parents, you preached and practiced every moment how to speak kindly of others. How else could you have maintained law and order otherwise? You kind demeanor will never be forgotten by myself or the people with which you constantly can in contact with. Your genuine personality and outgoing manner will live on forever in the hearts of your loved ones and colleagues. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero, we who live in modern society need to practice tolerance and the fine art of clean speech. Words are like a knife, they cut like a sword. Your humbleness in carrying out your duties should be a wake up signal as to how we should properly conduct our daily affairs.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 17, 2012

Parents have a wonderful opportunity to assist their children in learning the art of decision-making. This somewhat sophisticated skill does not come easy to many, and it would appear the earlier one starts in life making decisions, the more correct and on-target those decisions will be. Officer Cook, you were blessed, rather we were blessed, though I never had the distinguished pleasure of meeting you, I was able to glean pertinent information about your enriched life from your family and the book, "Forgotten Heroes." You were able to prioritize your aspirations and goals from a young age. This enabled you to make a smooth transition to a successful law enforcement career with the Metro-Dade Police Department, in which you endeared yourself to so many citizens and colleagues from all walks of life. The world as we know it is comparable to a rainbow and one has to blend and mold their hopes and dreams with one another. The opportunities to be blessed come our way quite often. Whether from a relative, mail carrier or a police officer such as yourself. Each blessing is an opportunity that knocks at our doors and each greeting and look to heaven may open the door to great salvation and renewal. The only thing for us to do is let these blessings in. I personally feel your spirit and blessings of having met some of your family members and in our home I feel your aura. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero along with your father, Charles and send down all of goodness of your divine spirit as it blesses your family and those who were humbled to be associated with you and the Cook family. Your mother will always be a part of my family and we will always say our prayers and blessings of good health, peace and spiritual prosperity with Mrs. Julia Cook in mind.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 16, 2012

There is a saying: Take charge of yourself, help others-Do It Now! Officer Cook, you might have learned in Sunday school of Noah and his ark. The ark took one hundred and twenty years to build. Between the different animals and people living there, there was much chaos. The behavior of both animals and humans was very bad. But there is a lesson to be learned, and that is to repent and try to co-exist with one another. A lesson you taught each of us well. When it came time for you to be stern you acted in such fashion. If you needed to point out something you were deliberate. When citizens broke the law, your job was to uphold it. A wake up call from God is meant to gather the attention of the one doing wrong. Whenever one is mired in personal agony, it is important to have a window to the world which is outside your own sphere of tragedy. The tragedy your family and colleagues endured on May 16, 1979 is one beyond comprehension. Yet I believe in my heart that God has and always will give your loved ones the strength to carry on. I hope my neighbor, friend and hero that you rest in peace and give us the bountiful courage to carry on your cherished legacy and overcome the evils that permeate modern society as we know it today. The spiritual life you led, should in no way, shape, or form detract from all you achieved. You were that take charge officer that your department counts on from all its officers. Be the best you can be. Corruption did not blind you, it only made you more aware of your surroundings and how to get a handle on the various situations you faced daily.Officer Cook, you were an honorable officer and a highly commended one, who stood eye to eye with evil and helped rein it in. You will never be forgotten for this. The strength and fortitude carried you wherever you traveled.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 15, 2012

"Indeed, You loved All the nations greatly, but Your holy ones were in Your hands for the others were planted at Your feet." This difficult verse is explained in a unique fashion. God loves all His creations, but it is said of someone who chooses to follow every difficult challenge. One who lives a structured life, would be punished for deficiency, and accepted the onus for each individual. That nation needed a special blessing, some would be placed at God's feet, while others would be in His hands. Indeed, Officer Cook, you were that unique individual who came into this world, not only at God's feet, but in God's hands. Your hands accomplished so much, you played drums in high school, took pictures, photography, and enjoyed hunting, I'll assume with a bow and arrow. When it came time to perform as a dedicated Metro-Dade Police Officer, you did not shows any signs of weakness or deficiency. You were indeed a very blessed person, who did not back away from the challenges that law enforcement personnel are presented daily in the performance of their duties. You saved lives, helped calm down those who needed appeasing. God has blessed your wonderful family and in particular, your mother, Mrs. Julia Cook with good health and spiritual fulfillment at the age of ninety-seven. A truly remarkable achievement, I'm sure she misses your presence each and every moment. You too were very jovial and congenial and brought only pride and joy to your parents, sister and other members of your beloved family. The friends and colleagues who shared stories of you, and your actions on May 16, 1979 that enabled them to carry on your distinguished legacy. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero, we will be forever grateful for God having planted you at our hands and feet. You were a humble man who appreciated the value of good friendship and the uncanny ability to make people laugh and appreciate the value of a fully enriched life.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 14, 2012

O God and God of our fathers, reign in all your glory over the whole universe and be exulted over all the earth in Your honor, and shine forth in the splendor and excellence of Your might upon all the inhabitants of Your world, that whatever has been made may know that You have made it, and whatever has been created may understand that You have created it and whatever draws breath may say, The Lord God of the world is king and His dominion extends over all. Clearly does our Bible teach us, "It was made manifest to you to know that the Lord, He is God, there is none beside Him." The mission of every living being is to serve God, fear Him and walk in His ways. To put forth the effort and serve God with a full heart. Be like servants who serve their master with no thought of reward and let the fear of heaven be upon you. This is my God and I will glorify Him. Officer Cook, as I reflected many times you were a man of God, a devout individual who "walked the walk" and let your lips speak when necessary. Karen and yourself both served God with your hearts and displayed the compassion toward others that was an ingredient in your successes. She worked as a registered nurse and you as a police officer. This is evident by the upbringing you had from your dear parents. You never disappointed them and for the twenty-five meaningful lives of accomplishment, embodied honor and integrity beyond the calling. I can only imagine the words spoken at your Inspector's Funeral at the mass celebrated at the Cathedral of St. Mary's by Assistant Bishop John Joseph Nevins, when he spoke words to the affect, that even if one is not Catholic, that before there can be an Easter Sunday, there has to be a Good Friday. Before you learn to walk, you have to learn to crawl. You were the epitome of a Godsend and a true blessing to all that came in contact with you either privately or as a public servant during your distinguished law enforcement career. People nowadays are afraid to confront challenges placed before them, you my neighbor, friend and hero were not. Karen, your wife knew this when she married you, your parents, Charles and Julia Cook knew what kind of special son you were, Nancy, your sister knew the kind of special brother you were to her and were there for them when they needed you. I understand you would stop by your parents home after work to check on their welfare. This was how you personified God and glorified Him. Rest in glorious peace along with your father, Charles and continue to patrol the streets of Heaven with those officers who passed before you serving the citizens of this great land of the United States of America. America the bold and you were the head of a lion, tackling challenges that most would not endeavor to do.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 13, 2012

God will rain down upon the wicked fiery coals and brimstone, a burning blast is their alloted portion. For God is righteous, and he loves the righteous man. The upright will behold His face. Officer Cook, since there is no good time ever God forbid for tragedy, we should always remember the pleasant ways and professionalism with which you carried out your responsibilities. According to the article in the book, "Forgotten Heroes", your colleagues and witnesses wondered why you and your fellow officers attempted to disarm the suspect before you and your comrades were shot. One officer stated under normal circumstances, you don't wrestle with people with guns, that's why officers have them. My neighbor, friend and hero, Officer Cook, you will forever be honored by many as a genuine hero who wasn't afraid to tackle a challenge and indeed that day you and your comrades faced a formidable situation You brought respect, and honor to your parents, family fellow officers and the Dade County community in which you were a real treasure of truly incredible man. We say a "mensch", in the Jewish language, and the actions by you Officer Cook saved your fellow officers from the wanton mayhem. A couple of minutes of violence is sometimes all that is needed tragically to undo a lifetime of a person's life flashing before them. I know you were not hesitant and you employed sound and reasonable judgment to the utmost. You made the ultimate sacrifice and for this we are very proud of you. It goes without saying that I miss you to this day and as I look at your picture right now with a smiling face while reflecting about you, you are watching over us and won't let anything bad happen to us. Your watching over everyone and your mother, Mrs. Julia Cook at age ninety-seven is very proud and yet I'm sure sad that you're not here to witness many of your family's happy occasions. I continue to pray for and keep your mother in my heart. According to the lead investigator on the case, Detective James McHugh, the incident and how you and your fellow officers reacted was within the realm of the law. You did all you could do before more drastic measures had to be taken. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero, God never forgets the souls of His righteous creatures and you are one of them. He is holding you and your dad, Charles in the palm of His hand as you both rest under His eternal shelter.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 12, 2012

In the book of Psalms it says ,"Examine me God and test me." I can only offer the wisest of words Officer Cook when I say, you checked all your actions from the time you were able to comprehend. Throughout your formative years, growing up you gave God no reason to doubt you would not be successful in all your endeavors. you passed God's tests with flying colors as did our patriarch Abraham. On May 16, 1979, God placed before your hands and feet the tremendous challenge to see how you would react and you performed supremely in the line of duty. You were prepared to sacrifice your very existence and did so in order to defend the lives of your fellow comrades. They and your department and the Central Division won't soon forget your courage and patience as it was put to the ultimate limit that fateful day in Liberty City. For now, rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. North Miami Beach has several officers who along with yourself are forever our guardian angels. I'll continue to pray for your mother, Mrs. Julia Cook and the rest of your special family. Your loyalty you exhibited that day will always remain with us like velcro to a person's garments.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 11, 2012

A person should always strive to keep the straight path, there are times when an emergency demands that a round-about path be taken. For example, the proper and straight path is mercy and humility. At times we must employ force, pride and audacity in combating the terrible menace of the wicked, especially those bent on defying the law of the land. Officer Cook, you were confronted with many decisions that terrible day of your passing. You had to search your soul and make a quick second decision to use your weapon to defend not only yourself, but your fellow officers as well. God was with you and your comrades, and you did as you were trained to do. To serve and protect. This person injured his girlfriend and we didn't anticipate this situation escalating much further, unfortunately it did and because of your heroic act, you sacrificed your very being to save your colleagues and fortunately a detective came to the scene and did what he too was trained to do and used his weapon on the suspect to defend himself. Hard to imagine after this tragedy, that the county had to mention something regarding the use of you and your colleagues weapons. We will never forget your bravery and courage and you should rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. If only this person had complied with your order to put his weapon down and get out of the car with his hands up. It certainly would have resulted in a more peaceful resolution.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 10, 2012

Just as a fiery and forceful locomotive, filled with energy and drive, can move that which is cold and inert, so too, one dynamic individual motivated by an insatiable enthusiasm, can stimulate many people and a community to positive action. From the Book of proverbs: "The path of the upright is to stay away from evil, he who safeguards his soul will preserve his way." Judging by the honorable life your led Officer Cook, you preserved justice with integrity and lived with honor and pride in all the things you enjoyed, that included hunting and photography. You inspired many with your warmth, zest and zeal for life. Those who were blessed to have known you are thankful for the twenty-five meaningful years on which you dedicated your pursuits of happiness. You will continue to be an inspiration to all who knew you. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. Helpful, Energetic, Resourceful and Occupied in making others happy.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 9, 2012

I was checking some of my past reflections Officer Cook and I noticed two glaring mistakes. I didn't do well in eighth grade typing at J. F. K. Junior High. So I wanted to correct them. First, I referred to your passing on May 16, 1079, I meant to say 1979. I hope you can forgive me, I meant no harm. Secondly,I said you and your dad, Charles Cook should rest in peace. I said it twice and once was all that was necessary. I hope you and your wonderful family can forgive me and I still look forward to meeting your mother, Mrs. Julia Cook and your sister, Mrs. Nancy Tidwell in the near future. Rest in peace. I'm sorry for the mistakes, as I try to check as carefully as possible my reflections that I leave, as they are typed with the best of intentions. I would never intentionally disrespect you nor the honor that you brought to the badge that your wore with pride, honor and dignity in serving Dade and its citizens. I respect all law enforcement officers, even having spoken at a synagogue with Broward County Sheriff Al Lamberti on the day in which two Miami-Dade Detectives were gunned down in the line of duty pursuing a wanted man in Liberty City near where you so courageously gave your life thirty-three years ago. I'm even friendly with two Catholic priests. One of them Dr. Thomas Honald was pastor of a church next door to a synagogue, The Chlidren of Zion, where I was the rabbi in 2001, the year of the terrible 911 attacks against our great country, in which nearly three-thousand people, including law enforcement personnel were killed. The other priest, Father Thomas Preston resides at the Courts at Palm Aire in Pompano Beach where I lead a weekly Sabbath Service for its residents. Once again, sorry for the mistakes and truly regretful for never having met such a lovely gentleman as yourself. You meant the world to so very many people and your loss deprives us of reaching out to a generous and caring human being. I still sob like a baby, even though I'm a grown man and your niece Gina Wilkerson had to pat me on the shoulder to comfort me when I met her, Trevor and their children, Alexis, Skyler and Legend.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 9, 2012

Each person when we come into this world possesses two inclinations: a good and evil heart. As stated in the Book of Psalms: My heart is void within me. When your set out in your law enforcement career Officer Cook, you challenge each day was first be safe and to protect the citizens from harm. Until the day of your untimely death, this is precisely how you carried out your duties. The citizens of Dade County could not have asked for more. Certainly, you went over and beyond to protect and defend. Thirty-three years later maybe we should be asking ourselves if we could have done more to help you. That day of May 16,1979 was obviously a very difficult and tragic day for Metro-Dade Police. You gave all you had to stop the evil of one particular man, perhaps we as a community should have done more to save you from this ignominious act. There are three classes of people, the righteous, the wicked and the fence straddlers. My neighbor,friend and hero you were a truly righteous and pious gentleman who poured your very soul of existence into your position daily, and because of the sacrifice you made on our behalf, God is granting your very special soul a Heavenly reward. Rest in peace and just wish as a concerned citizen, I could have been there to hold your hand and offer a prayer and been able to save you. Your inclinations were only for the good of the people and as a people person, you would have gone out of your way to accommodate in any way shape or form. It's the quality of a person's life that affords them that very special reward from Our Creator.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 9, 2012

It is stated when a person passes from this world and comes before the Heavenly Tribunal, they are asked by Our creator, did you allow for a time to be spiritual? If the answer is in the affirmative, that person is in for a great reward. Say a little and do much. Talking and doing are nice, but performing good deeds will let someone realize there is more to accomplish. My friend, neighbor, and hero Officer Cook, I'm sure you enjoyed chatting with your colleagues, and when it came down to acting and taking charge of a situation, you truly were one of your department's best. I understand you could be the life of the party, and say something to make one crack up laughing and yet your attitude when it came to calming down individuals was par excellence. I'm pretty sure when you had to think fast on your feet you were able to be creative in the sense of achieving your goal of uniting your colleagues in making certain the streets were safe. It is said that life is comparable to table of food, and one must choose carefully. The wise choices and decisions you made as an officer will never be forgotten and all those that were privileged to know you won't soon forget the wisdom beyond your years. Rest in peace and give us the ability to gain the insights that highlighted your prosperous career. There are a lot of departments embroiled in turmoil with their officers and Officer Cook, if you were with us today, you could teach these officers the value and true meaning of what honesty and integrity mean to the morale of a department. At the time when your worked out of the Central District it was considered a dangerous zone, but you were not afraid to perform your duty faithfully, and discharge it with the honor that befitted the position. You strived to be the best and that is all that Dade County citizens can ask of its officers. As you joined the ranks of your fellow officers who made the ultimate sacrifice, we have no doubt God's blessings will shine down on your family and loved ones. Continue to watch over us and provide us the wisdom to see light and darkness. Let that smile glow like the shining sun.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 8, 2012

The testimony of God is trustworthy, making the simple one wise. The orders of God are upright, gladdening the heart: the command of God is clear, enlightening the eyes. The fear of God is pure, enduring forever: the judgments of god are true, altogether righteous. They are more desirable than gold. As a devout person, Officer Cook the achievements you accomplished are the living testimony of what it means to succeed, by pursuing your hopes and dreams. In order to succeed, one must take chances, but look at every situation that comes along rationally. The dedicated law enforcement professional that you were came about not on a hope and prayer, but rather through sweat and toil, training, knowledge and constant review. It takes quite a lot of tests both physical and psychological for one to reach the pinnacle of success in your profession. This is not a career for the faint of heart, and before one embarks on this path, one must be quite certain this is how they want to go forward.Officer Cook, from your days as a youngster I believe this is the path in life you set for yourself. The courage and bravery you so displayed every day and took pride in all that you accomplished can be traced back to these statements in Psalm nineteen. You put your faith in God each day to watch over you and guide you safely as you so vigilantly policed Dade County streets.You placed your very existence before that of your friends in order to shield them from harm. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero in everlasting glory as you now patrol our streets from the heavens above. I could not be prouder of you even though I never personally met you, and I'll always have this regret. The love you showed to your wife, Karen, the love and honor you afforded your parents and to your loving sister,Nancy, who loved you and you to each other can never be taken away or replaced. Your dad, Charles and you are held together in the palm of God's hands and are sheltered under his eternal wings to rest eternally. The wisdom you obtained will forever be with you until we are all reunited again.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 7, 2012

There is an answer to all this trouble and turmoil, and the answer is conscience. The greatest beacon light God sends to all, the conscience of each bosom. With all this adversity, the quality we should strive to possess is a good eye. How beautifully true. The eye is the window of the soul. It can reveal love, kindness, goodness and understanding. A good eye rejoices in the happiness of others and shows sensitivity to others feelings. God forbid, an evil eye casts hatred, enmity, doom and destruction. Maybe, if there was more love in the world, we would not be wondering about an end rather than a new beginning. Loving peace, pursuing peace, loving your fellow sister or brother, the golden rule of life, and drawing them closer to you. We are are responsible for our actions and deeds. Officer Cook, these words so beautifully paint a lovely portrait of the rich life you lived and how you so skillfully demonstrated to each of us how to compose ourselves. Let your conscience be your guide is precisely how your memory should be perpetuated daily.Your tragic death is the blueprint of how to live life to the fullest everyday and accomplished all that you dreamed and desired to be. It takes a very secure person in their belief to do what your set out to do. To achieve greatness and to lead by example, we can't find anything more valuable to cling to. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero and be that beacon of light that helps and affords us the opportunity to reign in the violence that casts a shadow over the light. Your our inspiration to so many who knew and loved you and we shall forever cherish the beautiful memories of a well lived life. You sacrificed your very soul so that those who knew you, even those who did not can rejoice and be happy each and every day. The people of Dade County should go to sleep nightly knowing who you were and what it took for you to make them safe, sound, and secure. The righteous person in you saw that others were cared for before your needs were met. You always went the extra mile to enhance the necessities of others. God rewards those who help others and you have reaped your share in the next world and will continue to look down on us forever more. As someone who thinks about you and your family, your twenty-five years on earth were spent only accentuating positives. I still wish I had the opportunity to meet and embrace you, though I still would love to meet your wonderful mother, Mrs. Julia Cook, God bless her and your lovely family.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 6, 2012

Not gold but only men can make a people great and strong. men who for truth and honor's sake stand fast and suffer long. brave men who work while others sleep who dare while others fly... They build a nation's pillars deep, and lift them to the sky. My neighbor, friend and hero, Officer Cook, your heart was as pure as gold, with the disposition as sweet as honey, a great and wonderful human being to be acquainted with, and made up of strong pride. You worked all different shifts I'm certain, that most would never dare to do, you worked all night sacrificing for your family and community. You were the pillar, the glue as it was written that kept your family together. We have to keep up the battle that you waged to prevent innocent ones from suffering. Your pleasant demeanor is all we need to know. The spirits of those who you crossed paths with, you lifted them skyward and now they can look upward and see your countenance shining down on them. Rest in peace and continue lifting those who are downtrodden. The passion, pride, honor, and dedication displayed daily by you will continue as long as we always remember your brave sacrifice. You were the ultimate professional who could be counted on when the going got tough. Thank God for men and women like yourself who tackle situations that most everyday individuals would not.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 6, 2012