Officer Down Memorial Page

This message is for Thad, Judd and Lois as something i could not put into words at the time of Bud's death. Bud and i only worked together for a short time when he was transferred to patrol in Avondale. We immediately became friends and I can say that I really wish we had more time together. The night before Bud was killed we were having our late night early morning french fries (seemed to be a norm for us at the time). Bud was talking about Judd's graduation which was coming up that week. He was obviously looking forward to that and was very proud of both of his kids.

After his death I got the squad together and we all attended Judd's graduation and the following year most of us attended Thad's graduation in honor of Bud. I know he would have appreciated that. The night of his death i had taken the day off and Bud worked my beat and was driving my assigned patrol car. I remember getting the call that morning and having the squad over for coffee which i think helped all of us get through this tragedy and at the same time drew us closer together.

At the funeral where i met Lois for maybe the 2nd time she told me how much Bud had said he enjoyed working with me. A few months later Lois and the family took all of the squad out to dinner. I guess the bottom line is your dad was a fantastic guy and one i really enjoyed working with. Once again i can tell you he was very much proud of his family and what he did for a living. God Bless You All.
Mike Pennington

Deputy Sheriff (Retired
Maricopa County Sheirff's Office
November 8, 2011

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