Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Trooper Dodge,
On today, the 50th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just as a Law Enforcement Officer but for our Country as well when you served with the USMC in Vietnam. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

Semper Fi Devil Dog!

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

July 2, 2024

To Ray Dodge last born Son also to the person who wrote our officers should be better trained. My name is Donna and your Dad is and will always be our brother and Uncle. He stayed with us quite a bit being his sister is my Mom. Beverly Lonski.
In this world of heart break, blessings, dreams and memories there is no one as strong as your Mom..Your Dad loved you before your first breath. I honestly believe that your Dad has never left her side. Watching them together before any of you kids, was and is a love that I am proud and blessed to have seen. Your Mom is a Lady that didn’t skip a beat to be angry or feel sad for herself and you boys. I see you are in the military and we are all proud of you. BTW I loved you before you were born also.
If there were a trophy or ribbon for being the most humble, kind and best person I ever meant. I wrote her letters when you Dad was away working and when I just needed her. She could wrestle your Dad down and though we know he could have won, watching them be so in love is something I pray you have one day and all of us. So should you ever have questions, need a friend or just to vent, I am here.
As for the gentleman who said we need to give officers more training, I mean no disrespect but my Uncle Chip knew that POS from previous complaints, he shot not to kill!! Two tours of Vietnam, ran over by tanker once and shot the second time, he knew exactly what he was doing. He was and is a Marine forever.
When my Mom got that call she fell to the floor and she and my Dad headed to hospital in Hornell. I went to church and made all the promises I could think of to God, to please let him live. That day i didn’t talk to God any more for a long time. I was and am blessed with having a baby girl, Shannon. When the Dr told me she would die at that time being only one years old, she was my life, my reason for living so I talked to God for the first time in awhile. I am not a holy roller or whatever that is, but God knew I could
Not live without her. I was 16 and hell bent on she will live. God can’t always answer prayers right then and we don’t understand why he takes the wonderful away too soon. He has a plan and when our time comes, we will understand that plan.
Your Dad, Uncle Chip will always be loved and never forgotten. My brother Danny, has the beat memories of him and one day you should ask him where they use to camp behind Grandpa in the woods.
Please know you are so blessed with two parents forever in love.

Donna Crawford
Uncle/ Brother

May 2, 2024

I was there the day Trooper Dodge died. I lived and still live on the other side of the ravine where Chad Little's houses is located. Capital punishment was in affect at that time for killing a cop in the line of duty. However the murder charge was reduced to manslaughter and Little served 8 years. Afterwards I often saw Little out fishing and enjoying his life.

The reason Ray Dodge died is because he lost a gun battle. Cops need to practice more and shoot first and shoot straight. Judges are a joke.

Another cold blooded murder occured recently on Arrowhead Beach Rd. Dr Magda Daouf, 67. The walnut head Judge Jason Cook, arranged for Paul Khouzam the killer to be free in a few years instead of the electric chair. Like Chad Little, Khouzam will be back. These judges should be fired and charged with criminal negligence. NYS should have mandatory death penalty for killing a cop in the commission of a felony, and kidnapping. Justice in NYS is a disgrace. Judge Cook should be fired.

Thomas J McDaries
neighbor

March 9, 2024

My Cousin Ray Dodge (Know as "Chip") came to my defense when I first received my Driver's License when he was a Cop in Hornell NY back in the early 70's. The Hornell cops kept pulling me over thinking I was too young to have a Driver's License (No photo ID back then). Chip was murdered just a few weeks after my wife and I were married. Occasionally visit his grave in the Farview Cemetary (Karr Valley Road) along with more of my family including my mom and dad. Total injustice his murderer (Little) was paroled only a few years after Chip's death. He should have spent the rest of his life in prison.

Timothy Dodge
Cousin

September 12, 2023

Trooper Dodge is my Great Uncle and passed before I was born. My mom Donna and all our family speak so incredibly well of him. Thank you for giving your life so willingly that others may remain. My Grandma Lonski still shares about you to this day. You have left a cherished memory & legacy. You're forever in your families' hearts today and always. To his family I've never had the good fortune to meet since we moved to texas when I was a baby, I love you and pray for y'all everyday.

Shannon Curtis

July 3, 2023

Thank you for your service, both military and police,
and always know that your sacrifice will never, ever be forgotten. Rest in peace.

Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)

July 2, 2020

Trooper Dodge you will never ever ever be forgotten sir. Today marks the 46th anniversary of your death. Thank you for your service.

Retired First Sergeant Thomas Webb, New York State Police.

July 2, 2020

Rest in peace Trooper Dodge. May your killer receive his heavenly punishment!

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

May 15, 2020

Thank you for your service Trooper Raymond C. Dodge; Never to be forgotten.

First Sergeant Thomas Webb, Retired.
New York State Police - Troop D

January 31, 2020

To the Dodge family,
I was a 9 yr old boy when trooper Dodge came to help us with the deranged man next door and I firmly believe he saved my mother and my 2 sisters life that day with his skilled training and reflexes to fight back. If mr. Dodge did not wound the neighbor he would of attempted more mayhem. I am 53 yrs old today and will always remember the courageous trooper that came to help us that day july 2nd 1974. I hope one day in heaven I can thank him for his incredible but tragic efforts that dark day. Dana Millard.

dana millard
neighbor of the suspect

March 12, 2019

Trooper Raymond C. Dodge will never be forgotten. Thank you for your service to both the State of New York and to our country. May you soul rest in Heaven.

First Sergeant Thomas Webb (Retired)
New York State Police - Troop D

March 25, 2018

I wish I got the chance to meet my grandfather Trooper Raymond C Dodge from what everyone tells me through stories and everything its sounds like he was a very great and respected person... RIP Grandpa

Justin N Dodge
Grandson

December 6, 2016

July 2, 1974, I lived near the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hospital, Penn Yan, NY. I was off duty that day and washing my assigned B.C.I. car in my side yard. The police radio was on; I heard the dispatcher say a Trooper had been shot in Dresden. I immediately called in on duty and started for Dresden. On the way I met a SP car with a civilian driving toward the hospital. I drove on to Dresden and found the Yates Co. Sheriff had a suspect in custody. I was subsequently assigned to sit with Tpr. Dodge in ICU. Ray did not survive his massive injuries.

Inv./Sgt. Paul G. Hammond, Retired
NYSP B.C.I

January 16, 2016

i was 9 yrs old when trooper dodge came to my families residence, and will always thank trooper dodge for being an incredible police man that potentially saved my families lives. He was a nice man the few moments we met on that dark day. dana c. m.

dana c millard
kid who lived at residence that trooper dodge came too.

August 4, 2015

Time may have passed but you are not forgotten. I believe as long as someone remembers you or speaks your name, you are still with us.
Thank you for your heroism.
GOD Bless

Detention Officer A.Zambito
Texas

July 4, 2015

RIP TROOPER DODGE, ALWAYS REMEMBERED

Lieutenant P.J. Dyring
Corning PD, NY

February 16, 2013

To fully appreciate the heroes of the present, we must recognize our heroes of the past. Your heroism and service is honored today, the 38th anniversary year of your death. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer who was murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer. He was also your brother in green so I bid you semper fi and thank you for your service in the Corps.

Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered. Rest In Peace

I pray for the soloce of all those that love and remember you for I know both the pain and pride are forever. I thank your family and friends for sharing their devotion to you through their reflections.

Phylllis Loya
mom of fallen Pittsburg (CA) Officer Larry Lasater

December 26, 2012

It was a pleasure to serve with you in Platoon 158, MCRD, Parris Island. Rest in peace and Semper Fi.

Sergeant John Lanphear (Retired)
Rochester Police Department & USMC

June 29, 2012

Our GSD whom we called "Ruach" (which means wind or spirit in Hebrew) has just completed New York State Canine Academy and has been assigned to Officer Michael Kein. She has been renamed in memory of Officer Dodge and together with Handler Mike, is assigned to Trooper Dodge's home territory of Rochester.

Your name lives on, Trooper Dodge, as you are remembered by all who encounter this magnificent dog and her amazing handler.

Helen Bowers, Bark Master, Brooklyn Bark
Friend

March 28, 2012

Ray roomed across the hall from me in Basic School. He had experience as a Police Officer at a local PD before being sworn in as a Trooper. He was looked up to and helped us with advice and stories. I remember him as being just a good guy. I made it through my career to retirement, and I think about Ray and my other classmates often. 'Till we meet again, Ray.

Sgt. Dennis Jason
NYSP

November 17, 2009

My Dearest Family and Friends

Somethings I'd like to say but first of all to let you know that I arrived okay.

I'm writing this from Heaven where I dwell with Our Lord above. where there's no more tears or sadness just eternal Love. Please don't be unhappy because I'm out of sight, remember that I'm with you every morning,noon and Night.

The Day I had to leave you when my Life on earth was through God picked me up and hugged me and He said I welcome you.
It's good to have you back again, You were missed while you were gone. As for your Dearest Family they'll be here later on.
I need you here so badly as part of my big plan. Theres so much we have to do to help our Moral Man.
Then God gave me a list of things that He wished for me to do, and foremost on that list of mine is to watch and care for you.
I'll be beside you everyday and through out the years, And when your sad. I'm standing there to wipe away your tears.
When You lie in bed at night the day's chores put to flight God and I are close you in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on Earth and all the loving years, because your only human they are bound to bring you tears.

Please don't be afraid to cry, it does releive the pain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned, But if I were to tell you You wouldn't understand.One thing is for certain, though my life on Earth is over I'm closer to you now than I ever was before.

To My many Friends, Trust God knows what is best.I'm still not far away from you I'm just beyond the crest.

So, If you can help somebody who is in sorrow or in pain, then you can say to God at night my day was not in vain.
And now I am contented that with my life. it was worth while,Knowing as I passed along the way I made somebody smile.
If you meet somebody who is down and feeling low just lend a hand and pick him up as on your way you go.
When Your walking down the street and you've got me on your mind just know Im walking in your footstep only a half a step behind.
And if you feel a gentel breeze or wind upon your face thats me just giving you a great big hug or just a soft embrace.
I will always love you from the land way up above We'll be in touch again soon
PS God sends his Love.

Anonymous

November 5, 2009

I said a little prayer today for Trooper Dodge and his family. He may be gone but never forgotten. He will always be a New York HERO.

Robyn Wilkes

June 23, 2009

As my career's end is coming closer, I decided to check and find those who had lost their lives during the year that I was hired. While it's been many years since your passing, I'm sure those you left behind and those whom with you served with distinction have kept you alive in their memories. Thank you for your service and for looking out for us who continue in our chosen profession. Rest in peace Trooper Dodge.

Sgt. Robert Mau Sr.
PD Joliet IL

December 17, 2008

"The Badge"

He starts his shift each day
To respond to calls unknown.
He drives a marked patrol car.
A police officer he is known.

He's paid by the citizens' taxes
To make it safe on the streets.
But he usually has a second job
'Cause a waitress has his salary beat.

Now he doesn't know a holiday
'Cause he works all year round.
And when Thanksgiving and Christmas finally arrive
At his home he cannot be found.

He's cursed and assaulted often,
The one whos blood runs blue.
He seldom ever gets a thanks,
To some he's just a fool.

His friends are always other cops
'Cause people just don't understand
That underneath his badge and gun,
He's just another man.

He knows there might not be a tomorrow
In this world of drugs and crime.
And he gets so mad at the court system
'Cause the crooks don't get any time.

And each day when he leaves for work,
He prays to God above.
Please bring me home after my shift
So I can see the ones I love.

But tonight he stops a speeding car,
He's alone down this ole' highway.
It's just a little traffic infraction.
He does it everyday.

Well, he walks up to the driver's window,
And his badge is shining bright.
He asked the guy for a driver's license,
When a shot rang through the night.

Yes, the bullet hit its mark,
Striking the officer in the chest.
But the Department's budget didn't buy
Each officer a bullet-proof vest.

So he lay on the ground bleeding.
His blood wasn't blue - His blood was red.
And briefly he thought of his loved ones
'Cause in a moment the officer was dead.

In the news they told the story
Of how this officer had died.
And some who listened cared less,
But those who loved him cried.

Well, they buried him in uniform
With his badge pinned on his chest.
He even had his revolver,
He died doing his best.

Written By:
David L. Bell
Sergeant
Richland County Sheriff's Department
Columbia, South Carolina
Used with Special Permission of the Author
Copyright © 1999 - All Rights Reserved
and may not be duplicated without permission

Investigator David L Bell
Richland County Sheriff's Dept., Columbia, SC

December 20, 2007

Although I was only under 2 years old, I have the honor of being related to this fine officer of the law. His picture hangs in my mothers house (Martha Sue). Every time I drive by the Trooper barricks in canadaguia NY, I always think of him and what he stood for. God Bless You Uncle Raymond and God Bless all the others that have fallen in the line of duty. Thank You for doing your part to protect us all.

Richard Gebo

Richard L Gebo
Nephew

November 23, 2006