Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Steve,
You have been gone a long time and I miss you. We were together in the academy, jail, and at Lynwood and I miss all of the fun times we had at Lynwood and at car shows. I still have the photo you gave me of my favorite car. I wrote something for you 15 years ago and wanted you to have it. Thank you for being my friend, Jay.

“And the Bagpiper Played”
The morning is dark. A thick, grayish, smoke-like mist fills the air. It is frigid and covers my body, sending a chilling embrace down my spine. I feel cold and numb as I stand on top of the rich green hillside. I am overlooking the large crowd that has gathered and find myself separated from the group in distance as well as spirit. For this moment in time has touched my soul...
I find myself wandering, unable to stay conscious of the affair at hand, roving back in time...It was the year of 85 and we were but an obscure piece of a puzzle. A hundred cadets engaged in the vigorous training of the Sheriff's Academy. One combined goal, to pass a crucial test. For during such an endeavor, bonds, friendships, and trust emerged and developed. This is where I met Steve. A young kid with the look of innocence and the strong desire to do his part to help. We instantly became friends and never would have imagined where this path for justice we had chosen would lead.
Our first assignment was the Central Jail and our next phase of the process. A "Society within Society" and a different meaning to the term "Rules". For within this system, we discovered the significance to words like honor, respect, and trust. We began the method of learning, understanding, controlling, and evolving. We began to understand the criminal element, but it was only a comprehension that touched the outer edge of the surface, for we entered the next phase of our journey, “patrol”.
The streets, the ghetto, the “front line”. Neither the academy nor jail could prepare us for what lied ahead. We started anew with grueling and intensive training that taught us the skills necessary to survive this conflict.... if not war zone. We had undertaken a battle to save and preserve what is good, wholesome and right. We were to protect and comfort the citizens who had fled the streets and hid in their homes from fear. We were to cease the spilling of innocent blood and to stop the never ending violence.
Our hearts raced, the black and white’s siren wailed, the anxiety almost too much to endure. That was the 5th "GUNSHOTS FIRED" call we responded to in less than an hour and I could not seem to stay unnerved. Time did pass and I am amazed at how we grew with confidence, strength, composure, and skill. We were now in control of the events that would take place. We focused on another shots fired call and saw the helicopter overhead as we arrived on scene. The entire area illuminated with the spotlights. The suspects had fled the scene and left numerous bodies in disarray across the street. Blood was everywhere, people screaming and weeping uncontrollably, as their loved ones lay dying on the ground. Nights like this occurred all too often. It had been over three years since the day we completed training and I remembered smiling to myself as I saw you "hook" another gangster for possession of a gun. We did focus… we learned what was taught to us by the ones who had been there before us. We became hardened, immune, and were able to maintain control and make a difference. We developed skills and a passion for the streets. I remember when you accepted a position with the specialized gang unit “G.E.T.” and utilized your unique skills for arresting gangsters.
But control is not always a factor when it comes to the streets, for sometimes, some things are beyond our grasp. Destiny plays its part and often manipulates life, in a strange and twisted way. I was not present that fateful night, though I can picture the ordeal in my nightmares.
CRACK...CRACK! I find myself jolted back to the present and see the Honor Guard at attention with rifles aimed. "Ready... aim... fire" orders the Commander...CRACK! As reality strikes me hard, my tears begin to flow. I can see the helicopter formation approaching overhead as they begin the "Missing Man" tribute, one helicopter falling away from the squadron, signifying the "Lost Soldier." And as the bagpiper forces the song from the pipes, I whisper softly to myself, "The ultimate sacrifice...to give up your life for the people you swore to protect.

Jay Ritter, Retired
LASD Lynwood

May 12, 2012

Steve,
It's EM shift on May 12, 2012, 0120 hours at MCJ. As I sit here reviewing paperwork you came to my mind. It is now 17 years since the Lord called you home. Why, only He knows. Your death made this job and the dangers real to me. You were the first person I knew who gave the ultimate sacrifice for becoming a Deputy Sheriff.

I will always remember your charming smile and fun laugh in our acadmey class of 229. You are remembered by many who had the chance to work with you and those of us who knew you when we first started this profession. Having suffered my own personal loss, I know the pain your family has had to endure, but God is Faithful with His Grace and Mercy. May your loved ones know that Steve Blair will never be forgotten by those of us who knew him.
Rest in Peace and until we meet again in Heaven.

Lieutenant Claudine Sanchez
LASD-CLASS 229

May 12, 2012

Hey Partner....still think of you everyday. I have your photo on my workbench and Wendy made me a shadow box years ago. Your photo is in it with a few other things. I prize that. I miss you everyday 'ol friend!!! Johnny

John Rossman
LASD-Ret Partner with Steve in Lynwood 251E

February 8, 2012

We, from the Class of 1982 honor you at Bosco-- your name will forever be on our "Wall" in the courtyard---the Wall we all passed daily going from Class to Class, running by it late for Chapel, never could any of us fathom we'd return years later to see one of our own memorialized---recalling those days when we all talked about being the "next" big Hero, still so naive to the concept or sacrifice.
Can any of us forget all wearing "fatigues" to the Friday Night football games, spending what little cash we had on GAS--- to get to the Long Beach Army Surplus store,(the Cuda' & then Z28, about 4 miles to the gallon??) and making our entrance into the stadium, week after week, partly our way of honoring those names on the Wall at Bosco who sacrificed their lives in Vietnam....The "movement" of the "fatigues" spread to even the Joseph's girls!! And to this day, in the "Bosco 2011 Guidelines" ...."no Bosco student, or that of our sister school St. Joseph, shall be allowed to wear army type "Fatigues", to any Home Varsity Football game. This practice became quite "disruptive" and caused "concern" to our parents."
Well, Steve, we are the parents now, and intend on wearing fatigues, stopping by the "Wall" retelling our sons about our friend, the "one" who became the Hero.
To Steve's sons, we knew him "when"----he was quiet, but gave us something we all need to be reminded of today, how some young men are called to instill in their peers the love and honor and respect for America, and as painful as his sacrifice must be to you, we wanted you to know he recognized that Freedom isn't "free". And all of us, the "Group" have pledged to remind as many as we can, as we see our Nation struggling for Truth...... to not lose our "way"....you see, your Dad is still giving in so many ways, today, as he ever did. Stevie, Joey and Mikey, we are with you--- we know as you know "we will not back down, Americans do not go quietly into the night......

the "Group"---30 Year Reunion
St. John Bosco High School '82

October 19, 2011

Dana & Stephen,

No Officer and his wife will ever be forgotten. Keep an eye on the rest of us.

Chris

Retired Officer
Fellow officer

August 24, 2011

Dana,

We have been out of pocket for awhile. Thanks for

Retired
Fellow Officer

August 24, 2011

My Dearest Steve,

Another year has come and gone without you here...I went and polished up your headstone, put flowers on your grave and placed American flags on your grave and the other members of law enforcement that share the grounds with you at Rose Hills as I have done regularly for 16 years now. It still seems like yesterday and forever that you were taken from us...The memory of that terrible night forever etched in my mind and tearing at my heart. Not a day goes by that you are not thought of, missed and loved. I look forward to the day when we are finally together again...

Loving you and missing you always...

Dana Blair
Wife of Steve Blair

May 14, 2011

I think of you and miss you little (big) brother. We miss you dearly and pray for you. This day is tough for everyone in our family - but today we honor your sacrifice with prayers for you and all the law enforcement officers, who like you, made the greatest sacrifice of all.

We are so proud of your boys - they have grown to be wonderful young men and in many ways just like you. Your name and honor are in good hands with your sons.

I look forward to when the Z28 and Mach 1 cruise together again!

Your Brother,

Wayne

Wayne Blair Jr.
Brother

May 12, 2011

Steve, tomorrow brings another anniversary of your tragic death. I write this to you so that you know that your brothers in Lynwood, although most of us never got the pleasure to meet you, have not forgotten about the ultimate sacrifice you made for us. Each of us will be in long sleeve and ties tomorrow, in your honor, and each shift will return to Duncan/Walnut to reflect on your couragic actions that night. Know that you and your family continue to be in our thoughts and prayers...

Your Brother
Century XXI

May 11, 2011

Deputy Blair,
You worked with my dad in Lynwood. He tells me how those were the best years of his career, especially being your partner in 251e. My father tells me, you were the most sharp hardworking cop he has ever worked with. He's been on for 26 years now, and till this day will tell me that he has never worked with any one better than, Steve Blair. I want to become a deputy, and whenever I want to here something exciting or anything to help me learn, I always ask about a story from when you and my dad worked together. He says it was a blast to work with you, and getting all the good stuff and having fun and taking pride in what you guys did out there. I have my dads old clipboard, and it has "snake plisken" written on it till this day from when you wrote it on there. I know my dad misses working with you out there, and would pick you any day as his partner if he could bring you back. I personally never met you, I was very young when you passed. I can assure you that I know much about you and how amazing of a cop you were out there. I use you and your legacy to strive to become a deputy, and then one day to become the best deputy I can. You are forever in our hearts Deputy Blair, and will never be forgotten. Viking forever!

Chad Gittisarn

April 26, 2011

My Dearest Steve,
This year will mark the 16th Christmas that you will not be here with us. It will also mark our wedding anniversary. It seems like yesterday and forever that you were so suddenly taken from us all. Not a day goes by that you are not thought of and missed dearly. The wonderful memories of picking out the "perfect tree" each year and decorating it together will be with me forever. I will also always remember you proposing on that very special Christmas Eve and our exchange of wedding vows just before Christmas, too. All the memories we shared together I will hold forever close to my heart. I will love you and miss you always...Until we are together again...Your Loving Wife, Dana

Dana Blair
Wife

December 9, 2010

I was in DC last weekend and I saw Steve's name on the National Law Enforcement Memorial. We were in Explorer academy together, he was a really good guy. It's an unspeakable tragedy that he's gone, but I want his family to know that now, over 15 years after his passing, he is still remembered as a great man and a leader.

LBPD 4189
LASD Explorer Class 32

October 21, 2010

Although it's been many years since his death, and I never knew him, he was part of my Law Enforcement family; and I will mourn this deep loss the rest of my life. My heart aches with all the losses we have suffered, and continue to suffer, through the years. God is our only peace through such incidents & our comfort is the assurance that He will judge the guilty. In reading the reflections, it sounds as though his family is one he would be extremely proud of. May the "God of All Comfort" continue to lead, guide and sustain them as they remember this beloved officer; and may it help to know that they do not grieve alone.

Vicki Hare, Telecommunicator
Salisbury NC PD

June 30, 2010

To My Mentor:

I remember the day I sat in front of my t.v. (it was on mute, as I was on the phone) & saw your picture on my screen. My heart dropped, as I turned the volume up to hear the worst news. I began to cry & ran into my parents room with unbelief. You were my mentor & made such a huge impact in my life. I loved working the evening details & ride-alongs because there was always more action & more to learn. When I transferred to San Bernardino County Sheriff's in Chino Hills back in 1992, there was comparison to Lynwood!!! Although after college, I did not further pursue a law enforcment career, I did marry a law enforcement officer & currently work for Los Angeles County Dept. of Social Services. I cannot imagine the pain your wife & boys have endured through the years, my heart goes out to your family. I drove by the new Century Station not too long ago & got choked up when I saw the street sign dedicated to you. I tell my husband all the stories from back in the day & never once forget to mention YOU. I remember the day of your funeral & promised to always honor your memory. I have made it a point to honor all the heroes such as you, my mother who lost her battle with breast cancer 3mos. ago today (also buried in Rose Hills)& those who made an irreversable difference in my life. God must have been short of angels...He only takes the best...You are truly missed...Until we meet again, Deputy Blair.

Michelle Conde-Zavala
Lynwood Sheriff's former Deputy Explorer 1988-1992

June 10, 2010

Steve,
I visited today on the 15th anniversary since you were taken from us. Another caring partner and/or family member left an American Flag at your grave. The flag was a true reminder of your bravery, honor, and sacrifice!
Although 15 years have passed, the memory of that night has not left my mind or my heart...You are still missed by so many of us that enjoyed your friendship and time working together!
Joe

Joe Badali
LASD

May 13, 2010

Doesn't seem possible that 15 years have gone by. I still think of you often. I tell stories about how terrible it was to be the jailer on nights when you were in the field. You always supplied a steady stream of new crooks to the Lynwood jail. I remember a night you caught a 187 suspect the whole county was looking for but couldn't find. We are definitely poorer for not having you anymore. Rest in peace.

Don Goss
LASD-Retired

May 12, 2010

Rest in peace brother, you are not forgotten. Your legacy lives on.

285035
LASD CENXXI

May 12, 2010

Steve,
You've been gone 15 years today (May 12th) and I miss you more every day. Not a day goes by that you are not thought about, missed and loved. It breaks my heart that you are not here to realize all of your goals and dreams. You were not only my husband, but you were my best friend and my partner. I live each day to keep your memory alive and make you proud. I look forward to the day we are together again, forever.
Loving you always....

Dana Blair
Wife

May 12, 2010

My Dearest Steve, Today would have been your birthday. Not a day goes by that you are not thought of and missed dearly. People said that, with time, living without you would get easier. They couldn't have been more wrong...it only gets harder. You are loved and missed as much today as the day you were taken from us.

Dana Blair
Wife

April 24, 2010

Rest in Peace, Deputy Blair. Your sacrifice is not forgotten.

Officer 11169

October 23, 2009

Steve it's Marg I think of you every day that tall handsome guy getting home from work a glance a smile waiting to go to your favorite place to eat McDonalds..Quarter Pounder no cheese...You would pick me up from school sometimes in your awesome Baracuda and I could hear your car coming from 6 blocks away my girlfriends always jealous...Becky loved u so much...the boys too...and I did too u were like the brother I never had..I miss you love you and I'm proud to say you were my brother someone who watched over me when the guys started coming around to take me out...You are always in my memories Steve and I look foward to seeing you again one day save a spot for me..we will go to McDonalds ok...Margs

Margaret Diserio Wilkerson
Steve Blairs (sister-n-law)

October 13, 2009

Your heroism and service is honored today, the 14th anniversary of your death. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer who was murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

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

I hold your family in thought and prayer today.

Phyllis Loya

Phyllis Loya
mother of fallen officer Larry Lasater

May 12, 2009

I stopped by last weekend to say hi and a prayer for you Steve. I hope you know that you are not forgotten! I will have a good thought for you and your family today brother. God Bless.

Sergeant
LASD

May 12, 2009

Deputy Blair,
We went to the same high school. I was in the ninth grade when you were a senior. You were cool enough to give me a ride home in your black Barracuda--man that was a big, fast car. Should any of your sons read this posting I would like them to know that I knew both of their parents when they were still teen-agers and even at that age they were kind, giving people. Your dad always had smile on his face and long ago treated a scrawny 9th grader like he was a cool senior. I also remember going for rides in your mom's blue Camaro. At least two times, your grandmother Kathy took me along on trips to Lake Gregory, with Your mom, Aunt Margaret, and the Garcia's. I am sorry for your loss and want to let you know that your father and the contributions of your family are remembered by many people. Say Hi to your mom for me!!!!

Special Agent J. Rubio
DEA

October 25, 2008

Sir,
We chased them E/B Norton Ave, from LB Blvd. From N/B California to Beachwood. Myrrh/Washington, Castlegate/Rosecrans..Johnson St in Compton when the mood was right. I was so lucky to have the opportunity to learn from you in LYN. Rest assured the boys at CEN will never forget you. God Bless You Steve, Thanks......

MB

July 12, 2008