Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Patrol Officer John Kevin Lamm

Fairbanks Police Department, Alaska

End of Watch Thursday, January 1, 1998

Leave a Reflection

Reflections for Patrol Officer John Kevin Lamm

I never knew you Officer Lamm, but I still remember the New Years Day that you were taken from your family. Your sacrifice protecting those you were sworn to, is not forgotten. Just wanted to take a moment to say thank you and rest easy.

Ofc. Scott McCumby
Valdez Police Dept.

October 31, 2006

Well Kevin, I have to tell you that I had a very hard time with your death. We worked together, played together and I had the very highest respect for you. The way you always put your son first and your start in adult life reminded me of me when I was your age. I am writing this today, because I feel like maybe I have healed a little. Up until recently, I had a difficult time thinking about you without tearing up like a baby. Anyway, I know you already know, but I am a grandpa again (fourth time now), but first son for my son, Daniel. Daniel also has had a tough time in recent years, fighting and beating cancer and thinking he would never be a father because of the chemo, etc. I found out how much Daniel looked up to you from when you were an advisor in the Explorers. Daniel drove us all crazy because he would not decide on a name for his son. Finally, an hour before he was born, Daniel surprised us with the name of "Kevin". Now, our Kevin had a hard time coming into this world. He was 6 weeks early, had his cord wrapped around his neck and wasn't breathing when he was born. I was very scared seeing that little 4 1/2 pound blue baby, but I was confident that you would help your namesake in need. Kevin James Y is alive and well. He spent just over 3 weeks in the hospital, but was allowed to come home and is growing stronger every day. I think about you alot now, along with the new Kevin in our family, Thanks.

Sergeant Gary Yamamoto
Fairbanks Police Department

October 4, 2006

Kev,
On my way to work this morning I heard a beautiful song by Diamond Rio. It's called "God Only Cries". I could hardly see the road through my tears. I could blame this on hormones since I recently discovered my husband and I are blessed with expecting our second child. But, that isnt the entire truth. I cry often when I think of you. You were only 26 when you gave your life. I am 31 now and cannot comprehend that I have lived longer than you and many, many others.

Kev, as I've said many times and will always say...I love and miss you. Watch over us...

Your friend, -Dena

Detective Dena LeGros
CCSO

October 2, 2006

Officer Lamm It was in 1998 I started my career in law enforcement, and as I read your reflections it moved me, you were a stand up Police Officer. Here is a poem that I relate too, I hope others that knew you can too.

IF ONLY….

IF ONLY YOU KNEW WHEN I HEAR OF A BURNING HOUSE HOW FEAR RUNS THROUGH
MY BODY, HOPING, PRAYING EVERYONE WILL BE SAFE.
IF ONLY YOU KNEW WHENEVER I HEAR A SIREN, I PRAY. I PRAY FOR YOUR SAFETY AND
FOR THE SAFETY OF THE FAMILY YOU’RE GOING TO HELP.
IF ONLY YOU KNEW WHEN YOU HAVE TO TELL A FAMILY A LOVED ONE HAS DIED, MY
HEART IS SAD FOR THE FAMILY AND FOR YOU.
IF ONLY YOU KNEW WHEN I HEAR A SIREN I WILL BE THE DRIVER PULLING OVER FOR YOU.
IF ONLY YOU KNEW I THEN MAKE THE SIGN OF THE CROSS, PRAY AND HOPE EVERYONE WILL
PULL OVER TOO.
IF ONLY YOU KNEW WHEN YOU WALK IN TO A ROOM, IN YOUR UNIFORM, MY HEART SWELLS
WITH PRIDE AND I THINK OF THE LIVES YOU’VE TOUCHED THAT DAY
AND WHAT A DIFFERENCE YOU’VE MADE.
IF ONLY YOU KNEW WHEN YOU TELL ME STORIES ABOUT HOW YOUR DAY HAS GONE.
HOW YOUR TRIED TO SAVE A LIFE AND YOU DID THE BEST YOU COULD…
AS YOU ALWAYS DO.
IF ONLY YOU KNEW I CRIED WITH YOU.
IF ONLY YOU KNEW HOW I’M SHOCKED AND SADDENED WHEN I HEAR HOW DISRESPECTFUL
PEOPLE ARE TO YOU AND TO THE OTHERS WHO SERVE AND PROTECT
THEM TOO.
IF ONLY YOU KNEW HOW MUCH I RESPECT YOU AND OTHERS FOR THE JOB YOU AND THEY
DO.
IF ONLY YOU KNEW EVERYDAY I PRAY TO GOD TO SEND HIS ANGELS TO WATCH OVER YOU.
IF ONLY YOU KNEW I WORRY WHEN YOU GO ON A CALL, PERHAPS A DOMESTIC VIOLENCE,
NO TELLING WHAT YOU’RE WALKING IN TO.
****DEAR GOD KEEP THEM SAFE!****
IF ONLY YOU KNEW HOW BRAVE I THINK YOU ARE BUT SOMEHOW I THINK YOU DO.
Thanks Officer Lamm!

Patrolman
St.Louis County Police Mo.

September 20, 2006

Kevin - wow I just read the poem that Dena left, so beautiful thank you Dena, it touched my heart.
You were not forgotten on your special day Kev, I once again sent up that special balloon out at Chena lake- your 35th birthday. Again I stood out there and pondered over the years you were here on earth with us, so many wonderful memories of you, these are the treasures you left that remain now and forever in my heart. Rest in peace my son, you are deeply loved and sorely missed!!
Mom XO

Mother of officer John"Kevin" Lamm - EOW

September 7, 2006

Kevin,
Just after leaving your page, I saw this poem and I wanted to share it with you and all who visit you here.

DON'T GRIEVE FOR ME

Don't grieve for me, for now I'm free
I'm following the path God laid for me.
I took his hand when I heard him call,
I turned my back and left it all.
I could not stay another day
To laugh, to love, to work or play.
Tasks left undone must stay that way,
I found that peace at the close of the day.
If my parting has left a void,
Than fill it with remembered joy.
A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss.
Ah yes, these things I, too, will miss.
Be not burdened with times of sorrow,
I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow.
My life's been full, I savored much,
Good friends, good times, a loved one's touch.
Perhaps my time seemed all too brief,
Don't lengthen it now with undue grief.
Lift up your heart and share with me,
God wanted me now, He set me free.

Wow! How these simple words touched my heart and spoke to me. I believe in God and I believe you are with Him. I will see you again in eternity!

-Dena

Detective Dena LeGros
CCSO

September 6, 2006

Happy Birthday Kev!!
I miss knowing you are in the world. I took time today to remember you and what you meant to me. I will always love you, Kev.

Rest in peace brother

-Your friend for eternity, Dena

Detective Dena LeGros (Wilson)
Carson City S.O.

September 6, 2006

A man has no greater love, than one who lays down his life for his friends. You sir had your life ahead of you with your new bride, but you chose to give your friends a chance to live. There is a special place for you in heaven, and may God continue to watch over your family, and may they be blessed.

Michael Roberts
Browser

July 31, 2006

Hi Kev. Today is Memorial Day. I realize this day is mainly for the military. I sat and thought about that and came to the conclusion that law enforcement is alot like war. The only difference is, this is a war on our own turf with our own people. Many (too many) of the good guys are killed in this war every day.
I honor you and all of those before you as well as after.

I have to tell you about this experience I just had....I just got back from training in California. I was taken back when I looked into the face of a cop who had similar features as you. I could not get over the similarities. It made me sad. But, at the same time, I was happy. It was as if you were there. Still doing the job you loved...just in a different person. This may not make any sense but I understand it now. It was as if you were saying "Im still here". I didn't tell the cop why I stared at him all the time. Even his voice reminded me of yours. It was truely a wierd and blessed experience all at the same time.

May 4th was the Peace Officer's Memorial. We host it every year. As I stood there at attention with my Class A uniform on and tears streaming down my face, my legs were tired and weak. It was hot and we were all standing at attention for what seemed like forever...I realize why we were all there. The aching in the knees, the sweat rolling down our backs from our vest, the sweat from the hats...it all was so trivial compared to the reason we stood there. We honored yet another officer in the state of Nevada killed for doing his job. His wife and three daughters were in attendance. This overwhelming feeling of sadness came over me as I thought of the pain your wife and family went through (still going through). Words cannot express to any of them. The only thing I can say is that all of us in blue will continue to fight in your honor. In the honor of all of our fallen brothers. We hold our heads high, hold back the tears, and keep fighting.

I will never forget you. I will never let anyone else forget. I think of you always...

-Your friend and "brother in blue"

Detective Dena LeGros (Wilson)
Carson City Sheriff Department

May 29, 2006

It has been eight years since John left this world and his sacrifice is still remembered.
Our heartfelt condolences to your family, friends and co-workers. He will be in our prayers.

Ptl. P.K. Harding (Ret.)
Binghamton (NY) PD

May 4, 2006

Hey Kev.
No matter how many times I visit your site, I still have a hard time believing that you are really gone. My mom visited you for the first time the other day and said that she just sobbed as she read all the reflections. Even though I've read them several times over, I still cry too.
I try to think of the happy times when we were kids. How you and my brother used to pick on me all the time. I would give so much just to have those days again. I also remember the talk we had just days before you left for Alaska. I can remember every phone call since then and the note you left me the last time I saw you.
Our lives were headed in opposite directions then. Look at how close our lives are now.
I have always loved you and I ALWAYS WILL. Until we see eachother again...

Detective Dena LeGros (Wilson)
Carson City Sheriff's Departement

March 31, 2006

To Officer Kevin Lamm and his loved ones:

Please know that your memory is honored and revered today.

My heart goes out to your family. You’re in our thoughts and our prayers.
Reading the loving reflections about your beloved Kevin gives us some understanding of what a kind and honorable young man he was. His bravery on the awful night he lost his life was unparalleled.

Kevin, you rescued us, saved our possessions, our lives and our families. You are one of the rare heroes among us. You were always there for us in the most traumatic moments of our lives. No matter when we called, we just expected that you would come and do whatever it took to help us, and you always met our expectations. Your selflessness and dedication are awe-inspiring.

This world, this country, your community truly are better places because of you. To have lost you is a great tragedy, an irreplaceable, immeasurable loss for society. We are grateful for and to you, and honor you for all you did for us day in and day out whether you received a word of thanks or praise.

Rest in Peace, Officer Lamm. I am humbled by your valor, courage, and dedication.

This reflection is sent with the utmost respect for the distinquished service Kevin gave to his community and the citizens of Alaska, and for the supreme sacrifice he and his family made on January 1, 1998.

Phyllis Loya, mother of fallen officer Larry Lasater, Pittsburg PD, eow 4/24/05






March 22, 2006

To Officer Kevin Lamm, you will never be forgotten. You are in my daily prayers and so are your family. I go and read the reflections of the ODMP, and pray for all of our fine Officers that have sacrificed their lives. thank you for your hard work dedication and the sacrifice you made protecting the citizens of Alaska. God Bless you as you sleep in God's Love and in His Peace.
Respectfully,
Kathi halligan Phila Pa./ wife and mom of LEO

March 14, 2006

A POLICEMAN'S PRAYER
BROTHER WHEN YOU WEEP FOR ME REMEMBER THAT IT WAS MEANT TO BE.
LAY ME DOWN AND WHEN YOU LEAVE REMEMBER I'LL BE AT YOUR SIDE...IN EVERY DARK AND DREARY ALLEY I'LL BE THERE AS YOU SLOWLY TREAD, ON EVERY STREET CORNER IN THE DRIVING SNOW I'LL HOLD YOUR COAT AND YOU WILL KNOW.
IN PLACES WHERE THE DEVIL IS AFRAID TO WALK...
AT DOORS WHERE YOU MEET RESISTANCE...
IN HOUSES WHERE CHILDREN HIDE,,,
YOU KNOW I'LL BE AT YOUR SIDE.
THE PLACE FROM WHICH I NOW RESPOND IS OVERSTAFFED WITH HEROES GONE...MEN WHO ANSWERED ONE LAST JOB AND DID IT WELL.
AS POLICEMEN WE UNDERSTAND THAT THIS IS A CARD DEALT IN OUR HAND...A CARD WE HOPE WE NEVER PLAY BUT WE HOLD IT THERE ANYWAY.
THE CARD IS SOMETHING WE IGNORE AS WE STAND ON THAT THIN BLUE LINE EVERY TOUR...FOR WE KNOW THAT WE ARE THE ONLY PRAYER FOR MANY OUT THERE.
SO REMEMBER, AS YOU WIPE YOUR TEARS, THE JOY I HAVE KNOWN THROUGHOUT THE YEARS...AS THE JOB I LOVED TO DO I PRAY THAT THIS THOUGHT WILL SEE YOU THROUGH.

-AUTHOR UNKNOWN

BROTHER, THERE IS NO GREATER LOVE THAN TO LAY DOWN YOUR LIFE FOR ANOTHER...MAY YOU REST IN ETERNAL PEACE.

Detective John Halligan
Philadelphia Police Department

March 12, 2006

I honour your bravery.Such courage will never go unnoticed.Rest in Peace.

March 10, 2006

Thank you for your service Officer Lamm. Its individuals like you who keep us citizens safe every day and night. Not only did you die doing the job that you loved but you also died with honour while protecting your fellow officers. Thank you once again for your service and you shall always be loved, cherished and never forgotten.
To officer Lamm’s loving mother, you raised a wonderful person. And I can see through your reflections what a great person your son was and how much love you have for him.

Khalif Student

February 20, 2006

Dearest Kevin - You have been in my thoughts and in my heart so much lately. I have been reading many of the reflections left for the officers that have died in just this year, so many already, it is really so sad. Each time I read I relate to the heartache of the families, friends and co-workers and what they are going through and my heart seems to break all over again.. There has been and continues to be so many tragic events happening in the world that it is mind boggling. For me I know that one has to give all one can in this life to let others know how deeply one cares for another because (as I have learned) one never knows when a loved one will be snached away, in a split second lives are changed forever. Our lives were changed forever when you were so suddenly taken away, I can only hope that all of us affected by your death have become more compassionate and giving people.

Kevin, although you must have been aware, Yesterday I was able to spend time with your son, my first grandchild, and his Mom for brunch. Kev I gave Elliot your flag that was presented to me at a service in Ohio and the special case that was made for it. He is almost 16 now and this should belong to him , I believe he was quite taken back and proud to have this as a reminder of the sacrifice his dad made. We had a very special time together - he knows you set a fine example in the way you lived and can remember that in crucial times of choice making to give him strength and courage to do the right thing in his life. Thankyou for your life shared with all of us- tho it was cut way to short, you were a blessing in my life and the lives of all you touched. Your brothers miss you Kevin you were (are) so extremely special to them. Well, my young son - I could go on - but will close with my love and may you be at peace in paradise.

Mom

February 20, 2006

..... "He was fatally wounded while giving his two partners a chance to escape the apartment".....

Thank you for being a HERO Officer Lamm. Your son, family, friends and fellow officers are proud of you. We will never forget you or your sacrifice.

Officer
Maryland

January 23, 2006

Larie,

Thank you for leaving a reflection on my late fiance's memorial page. It means a lot to know that there are people out there who still take the time to remember Dennis even years after his death. From reading the reflections on this site it's apparent that Kevin was a great man who is made a difference in this world. I'm sure you are very proud of the officer and the MAN your son was. Kevin was who he was in part because of the people in his life. Thank you for having a hand in making Kevin the special person that he was. Know that his "spirit" will continue to live on in the hearts and minds of those people and in all the lives he touched.

Holly,

I lost my fiancee Dennis just days before we were to be married. We had so many hopes and dreams. So many plans. The minute Dennis died all those plans died. My world was ripped out from under me and it really felt like a piece of me died with him. Being a new bride I imagine you shared similar feelings. I know it's been years since you lost Kevin but my heart goes out to you. I read the reflection you left for Kevin and the "footprints" he left on your heart is evident. The love that you two shared is apparent. Some people search their entire lives to have what you and Kevin shared. You were so blessed to have been able experience that with Kevin and to share a part of your life with him. I hope you are able to find a way to continue to celebrate Kevin's life and to use the love you two shared as strength to carry on. If you ever need anything please do not hesitate to contact me. Remember you are not alone in the "journey" you walk.

Elliot,

I'm sorry that you lost your dad at such a young age. Remember that even though your dad isn't there with you physically, he is continues to watch over and keep you safe. I know you will continue to make him proud.

Officer Lamm,

Thank you for making a difference here on this Earth and for helping to keep this world a little safer. Please continue to keep watch over us all as only you can. Know that YOU will not be forgotten. If you happen to bump into my late fiance Dennis up there please give him a big hug for me and the kids. Even though it's been three years we still miss him terribly.

Peace, love, luck, health, and happiness~!


Jocelyne :)

"Forever Remembering 26-3"

Jocelyne Brar (Winnipeg, MB Canada)
Fiancée of Deputy Sheriff Dennis Ray McElderry (EOW: 01/03/03)

January 13, 2006

To the family of Kevin Lamm,
I read your beloved Kevin's story today and was struck by his courage and strength. As another anniversary passes, know that Kevin is honored and will never be forgotten. He is a true hero.
Mary Kay Balchunas
Proud mother of Jay Balchunas,
EOW 11/5/04

January 1, 2006

I just got home from a very busy New Years Eve shift and checked this site and the January 1 day in history and read this heros story. Officer Lamm your family and friends reflections continue to honor your memory and your life. I sincerely pray that God will continue to provide them the grace they need to make it another day. Eight years ago today you saved your fellow officers and paid the highest price. After reading your story I will try to be a better husband, father and cop-thank you and May God Bless Your Family.

North Carolina Police Sergeant

January 1, 2006

Hey Kevin,
Just got online to check out whats happening with Project Bluelight. Your Mother got me started dedicating the front of my house and I do it every year now. I am living in Florida now and I manage an Applebees resturant. Times change Brother but memories do not. New years is a different day now. I miss you.

Take care Brother and know I think about you often.

Sean

Sean Burke

December 22, 2005

Officer Lamn: This note is from a citizen who has never met you but wants to tell you that your service to your fellow citizens is and always will be appreciated. You were obviously a very fine officer and your family raised a man who knew what sacrifice and service means. No wonder your mom is so proud of you. We all appreciate and miss you no matter if we knew you or not.

An appreciative Alaskan Citizen

December 9, 2005

Kevin,
With Christmas time coming up, it's time for Lacy and I to plan on the New Years' Eve food for the guys at the station again; she's really enjoyed being a part of it the last few years. Last year, since I interned at Post, we took food to them, too. Man, they didn't know what to think; so we'll do it regular now for them too.

I'm glad we saw you that last night at the fire on Cowles. The look and smile that you had was priceless and I treasure having that as the last time we saw and spoke to each other. There you were, doing the job and being you; then the next day came the nightmare. You know that was only the second and last time in my life (so far) that my feet went out from under me. I was standing in the kitchen, opened up the paper, and I was on the floor. We were just starting to really get to know each other good; you know.

As you know, Matt and Jeromey are still working at FPD. I always have to say hi and smile whenever I see them; sometimes I think they're wondering why I'm smiling. It's just really good to see them go on with life and deal with us losing you; I was wooried about them, that's for sure. They're both excellent cops and family men and Jeromey is always doing everything he can to stay outdoors; so much like you.

Dan is doing wonders for the department, his energy and attitude was long overdue. I'm going to talk to him about reprinting your shirt again; I can't wear the original one anymore. [Hey, don't be hatin'! :)] Sorry I didn't push hard enough to get them printed last time; this time, "no" is not an option, even if I have to pay for them and sell them myself.

That's all for now brother. Just know that I miss you and that as long as we are here and think of you and talk about you, you will NEVER be forgotten.

Rest easy, Kevin; we've got it from here.

Ofc. Alan Mitchell
Alaska Division of Juvenile Justice

December 7, 2005

Kevin, another Thanksgiving without your physical presence yet you will be with us in every other way. You loved the holiday season - the football games,phone calls to your brothers "hey are you watching - did you see that play?' The feast set at the table - preparing and eating. I pray you know we will have you in out thoughts, (your always in our hearts), as we give our Thanks again this year for so many blessings in our lives - Kev I will be saying Thanks for the fact you were placed in our lives even tho it wås for to short of a time, you enriched our lives more than you know. I love you, we love you!!

Mom

November 23, 2005

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