Officer Down Memorial Page

Each June 6th is a solemn day for me as I remember that summer day when Leland (B2) went out on traffic at 8th and Congress. We heard his voice, different than normal that time …. And a sense that things weren’t right came over me …. And through his fellow officers efforts that day his assassins were apprehended and gun recovered. Rest in Peace Leland – you will always be remembered.
Your Friend in B3 - Tom S

Your Brother Officer
austin police department
March 30, 2012

"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
January 30, 2008

Officer Anderson, you sir are a true HERO. On this the anniversary of your untimely death a word to all that you, sir, are not forgotten and never will. Thank you for your service, dedication and courage. Keep watch over us from above as we continue your good work. Rest easy sir, you have earned it.

NC LEO
Winston-Salem PD
June 6, 2007

I remember the day it happened, just like it was yesterday. I was on my first leave. I heard the news over the radio while riding down the beach. I was shocked because I had just seen you a couple of days before. It has been 32 years and I have not forgotten you. Rest in Peace..There will be a reunion one day my friend..

Bruce Boardman APD Retired
Friend
February 26, 2007

we still remember brother. thank you for being there.

Anonymous
October 21, 2006

Officer Anderson You are remembered Brother. 01/22/2004

Sr. Trooper Keith Miller (Ret)
Oregon State Police
January 22, 2004

You are not forgotten, brother. We are carrying on what you started. Rest in peace.

Sgt. A. Whitney
Yuma County Sheriff's Office, Yuma, AZ
September 30, 2003

This is a very brave man. I hope that during the time of this incident, up until today, the members of the community which he served truly appreciated his commitment and sacrifice to their safety. Every coworker and family member can be most proud to know that Officer Anderson's actions were a true testament of his character. I salute you for your bravery. May you rest in peace in a special place. May your bravery, commitment and sacrifice never be forgotten!

Trooper Andrew Canepa
Pennsylvania State Police

Rest in Peace Brother...you will never be forgotten

CPD