Officer Down Memorial Page

I 'accidently' found Kate's book just this past Thursday, 4/12 in our church library. While sitting through choir practice with my husband (he sings, I don't)I picked this book off the shelf, knowing nothing about Kate or her story. Since then I have read the book twice and am on my 3rd time. It is a magnificent book, tellinsuch a good story, extremely touching. Then just awhile ago I found the notice about Little Drew. Unbelievable. I can't stop crying.
My love to all of the family, amid your surrows.....
may you have greater high moments...may you accept these words from a stranger. PS - I don't believe in 'accidents'..I was led to Kate's book.

Patricia Goodwin
Pocono Lake, PA

no rank Patricia Goodwin
just an interested bystander
April 15, 2012

Born in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountain, not far from the Tennessee River, Drew was born. It is people like him that makes Tennessee proud to be called the Volunteer State and she has produced none greater than my brother.

Ed Griffith
brother
April 15, 2012

Dear Everyone,

Thank you so much for saying such nice things about my dad. Henry Clements- I got an image of you saying to your Lab, "Stop peeing on the furniture Drew!" and I know my dad would get a kick out of that!

Yesterday, I was working on an art project at my volunteer job at the Center for Grieving Children here in Portland, ME, and it was a "memory lane" in which you write and draw about the people you have loved that have passed away. Suddenly ALL these memories came rushing back! There are so many of course, but I will always remember the day my dad pulled over my school bus, sirens and everything because we were late getting to the stop. I was five.

A few years ago my dad's sister Mary took me to the police station in Hartwell, Georgia, and they had an entire display of newspaper clippings and photos, and nice messages dedicated to my dad, and the guy-o's working were SO nice! They told me it was an honor to meet me, but really, I was the one with the honor of meeting them! I also had the privilege of handing out my Dad's memorial scholarship several years ago to one of my good friends. It was such a great feeling.

I can't believe it's been sixteen years already. Those years have been filled with love and support, family, friends, and amazing community members. Thanks once again for everything, all of you!

Love, Ellie

Ellie Griffith
Daughter of JAG
April 14, 2012

To all Drew's friends and comrades, to all law enforcement officers: On Sunday, it will have been sixteen years since Drew's death. The children are fine---they aren't even children any more, but young adults! And Drew's son Zach has applied to the Maine State Police. If all goes well, the next Trooper Griffith will begin at the Academy in August.

A law enforcement widow declared, memorably, "It is not how they died, but how they lived that makes them heroes." The corollary to this is that you don't have to die to be a hero: All of you are heroes too. My love and thanks to all of you---Kate (412-A)

Chaplain Kate Braestrup
widow, and Chaplain, Maine Warden Service
April 13, 2012

Drew,

We always knew if you were on a raid with us that we'd be a lot safer.

We miss you, but haven't forgotten you. I just named my new Lab puppy after you. I hope he's as loyal and brave as you were.

Ronnie Damon and I can't get together that your name doesn't come up.

Harry Clements DEA 1971-1995

Senior Special Agent Retired
Federal DEA
June 29, 2011

Trooper Griffith,

May you always be remembered for your service. I recently read your wife's book and as a police widow myself (also LOD),was so touched by your marriage and relationship-I completely relate. Your wife is an inspiration and I so enjoyed her book about her journey into her 'new normal'. Thank you for your service and may your family know they are not alone. You will always be remembered.

L. Parry
Wife of Det Sgt Mark F. Parry
Balto County Police Dept
E.O.W. 1-21-02

Anonymous
October 26, 2010

I also read your wife's story in Reader's Digest...what a wonderful and strong woman. Rest in Peace.

Ofc. Williams
UGPD
December 23, 2009

I just read your wife's story in the Reader's Digest...rest in peace, my brother, you were truly loved.

PJN
CCSPD
December 21, 2009

Your heroism and service is honored today, the thirteenth 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.

Phyllis Loya

Phyllis Loya
mother of fallen officer Larry Lasater
April 17, 2009

After reading these reflections it makes me proud to share his last name. God bless and be with the family of Trooper James A. Griffith , from the family of retired Trooper William R. Griffith Sr., Trooper William R. Griffith Jr., and Trooper Jared L. Griffith from South Carolina.

Trooper William R. Griffith Jr.
South Carolina State Highway Patrol
November 20, 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
February 11, 2008

Rest in Peace!

Police Corporal Matt Lyons (Historian)
Oceanside Police Department, Cal
January 21, 2008

Trooper Griffith,

I just finished your wife's book and what a truly amazing and inspiring man you were. Thank you for protecting and serving. You will never be forgotten.

Ashley Adams
Girlfriend of HCSO Deputy S783
November 20, 2007

Trooper Griffith,
Although we have not met, I did meet your wife. She and I both responded to a drowning call a couple of months ago. We spent quite a while together that day. I remember stopping her and thanking her for being so kind and doing such a great job. A few days ago I heard about the book she just wrote. I now know why, and how she is able to do her job with the Warden Service. Thank you sir... for your service to our state, and for continuing to be with your family so they are able to help others. Rest in peace.

Jessica Mihalik
ASO
November 6, 2007

I have read the story of your life and love with your wife and family...thank you for touching this world with your kindness...you live everyday in the work of your wife and the smiles of your children...
Sincerely,
Charlotte R. Olson
Minnesota

Charlotte Olson
September 7, 2007

I knew james as a friend and I still rember talking to him . We will miss you James.

December 20, 2006

I worked briefly with Trooper Griffith when I was hired as a new police officer in the City of Rockland, due to it being within his area. Thank You Drew for your assistance to, and patience with, a new officer who was learning. You left a lasting impression that led me to want to become a Trooper myself. Thank You and may God bless your family.

TROOPER JOHN C. MOORE
WISCONSIN STATE PATROL
September 28, 2006

On this 10th anniversary may we never forget Trooper Griffith's sacrifice..May God Grant His Family, Fellow Troopers,and Friends the Serenity to accept the things they cannot change, the Courage to change the things they can and the Wisdom to know the difference...Rest in Peace Brother in Blue..

Officer Debra McFall Ross
East Buffalo Twp Pd. Lewisburg, Pa.
April 16, 2006

Trooper Griffith,

You are very much missed by all. I can see that you were quiet a character even though I have never met you. May you rest in peace, Sir! You will never be forgotten...

Police Officer
HCSO
January 24, 2006

I salute you for your service and honor you for your sacrifice.

A hero never dies....

Rest in peace, hero.

May 18, 2005

Drew,

We'll never forget you, and the impression you made on our lives. Your casual swagger, and light-hearted sense of humor brought a smile to many of us who were graced by your presence.

Lieutenant
Maine State Police
April 15, 2005

Trooper Griffith - I never personally knew you but wish I had. I've heard nothing but praise for you as a Trooper and better yet a family man. I attended your funeral and it was very moving. Your wife is a rock and your family well cared for. You'd be very pround!! Rest in peace brother and I will meet you some day.

Detective Lowell Smith
Maine State Police
April 15, 2005

Drew,
Just turned the corner on our career and headed for home. 6-yrs left to go. Seems like just yesterday we were going through the academy together, swapping stories and having you prepare me for kids. Every year, a few of us make the trip to Washington DC for Police Week. Somehow, and of course I know nothing about it, but somehow the passenger door of your cruiser ended up at an Irish establishment in DC. It only seems fitting that since you also worked as a US Park Police officer in DC, that some type of momento be left there in your honor. We toast to you every year and also visit with you at the Memorial.
Kate and the kids are doing fine and Kate is doing a lot to help officers and their families in need. She is great.
Take care brother Drew and keep and eye on us.
Fraternally,
Mike

Sgt. Mike Edes
MSP
September 11, 2004

Drew;
I will always remember your smile and easy way. Thanks for the laughs. You are thought of often.

Detective Jim Trask
Maine State Police
May 1, 2004

Drew;
I will always remember your smile and easy way. Thanks for the laughs. You are thought of often.

Detective Jim Trask
Miane State Police
May 1, 2004