Officer Down Memorial Page

Dear Brian,

My younger sister found this page and told me about it. I don't even know what to say exactly except that your death tore our entire family apart. I was 19 that summer and remember being absolutely devastated at hearing the news. I particularly remember your mom's deep grief which just really became a(n understandable) part of her over the years. Your dad mourned more personally, but I know your death affected him as deeply. Even though 30+ years have passed, we have not forgotten you and your sacrifice. Thank you for choosing to serve and protect. We miss you as part of our extended family but know God has enfolded you in His loving arms. I am sorry we did not get to know each other as adults, but we will meet again someday. God bless.

Mickey Swart
Cousin
July 7, 2010

I will always love you and keep you in my heart.
You are a hero and a friend forever.
SLM

SLM
December 19, 2009

Love you always. You are a true hero.

Anonymous
December 19, 2009

I remember when this tragedy occured. I lived in Oxon Hill, MD at the time. Now that I am a Police Officer, I rembember these two young officers every so often, particularly when I am in the booking area of the jail when I make arrests. May God grant them peace in realm of everlasting light and joy, where tears are no more.

Ptl. Bruce S. Bevans
Hopewell Bureau of Police, VA
July 18, 2008

Brian,
Has it been thirty years ? It seems like yesterday. I am the last one left who was there that night. I celebrated my thirty five year anniversary yesterday.(Old man now)
I miss you guys. I can't look at the old station without thinking of you. We sure had fun back then didn't we ? That was me at the cemetary today. I guess you already knew that ?
Your memory lives on. You are not forgotten.

Until we meet again
Your Pal

Lt. J.S. Decker # 603
Prince Georges County Police
Hyattsville Station

Lieutenant John S. Decker # 603
Prince Georges County Police
June 26, 2008

Brian,

Thirty (30) years have passed since that tragic event that took you and Rusty from us. The pain of that day still cuts like a knife. Both you and Rusty were an inspiration to me in life and your deaths inspired me to choose my path in law enforcement. I cherish the times we spent together and will NEVER forget either of you...

Sergeant Andrew (John) Mutchler
USSS/UD
June 26, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family on this anniversary.

Former Police Officer (Dist. Hts. MD)
June 25, 2008

On this day, 29 years ago, you paid the ultimate sacrifice. I am sure your family felt horrible sorrow in your untimely murder as well as terrific pride in your job as a Police Officer. Thank you for bravely and proudly serving your community. You will always be a hero who will NEVER be forgotten!

Retired Sergeant
AR
June 26, 2007

May you always rest in peace knowing that you will never be forgotten.

Cpl/1 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police
June 26, 2007

Brian,
You and I were friends. I just wish that our friendship could have had the time to strengthen and grow. I miss you, even now.

Debbie
PG Co. PSC (formerly PGPD Comm Div)
February 8, 2007

On this anniversary,May we never forget Officer Swart's sacrifice. May God Grant Officer Swart's Family, Fellow Officers, and Friends the Serenity to accept the things they can not change, the Courage to change the things they can, and the wisdom to know the difference...Rest in Peace Blue Angel..

Officer Debra McFall Ross
East Buffalo Twp PD, Lewisburg, Pa.
June 26, 2006

I will never forget you. Your friend forever.
S.

SLM
A friend forever
December 7, 2005

God Speed, Brother.

P.O. K.Murphy
Union PD, NJ
August 5, 2005

You are a hero to us all and you will never be forgotten.

DE
St. Louis City Police
July 3, 2005

Officer Swart,
Thank you for your service. You will not be forgotten.

Police Officer
Montgomery County, MD
December 25, 2004

I remember being a 22 year old, living in Prince Georges County, trying to figure out what I wanted to do with my life when this tragedy occurred. I had just been in the Hyattsville station the day before, because I had gone on a ride-along with another officer. I was devastated that this could happen. I now work for the Florida Highway Patrol in an administrative assistant capacity. I still think about that awful day, and pray that it never happens to anyone again. My prayers are you and your family.

Sandi Parrott
Florida Highway Patrol
August 6, 2004