Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

I, and the rest of my department want to send our prayers out to the family and friends of Sgt. Michael Johnson.

Ofc. Brent Murray
Milford PD, Milford MI

August 27, 2003

Mike,
Just over 2 months now. Seems like an eternity or just like yesterday. Life goes on for all of us but you are always there. So many "Remember when Mike did that?" or "That is what Mike would say." We are all trying but it is so hard. Still so raw! I return to these messages often and get comfort from them. Be safe and God bless, MJ

Sandy Gilderdale
friend

2 months today Michael. It is every bit as painful as the day you left us. The void that you have left us with is too hard to describe. You were truly the best. I am so fortunate that I had the time with you that I did, although selfishly I don't think enough. We really are trying to go on, all for you. You will never be forgotten. You were truly the light on this earth for so many people. Now you are lighting an even bigger sky. And if anyone could ever do that, it is you Michael. If any of those kids you ever coached turn out to be half the man you are, this world will be a better place. Rest in peace. I love you.

Anonymous

May your strength give us strength,
May your faith give us faith,
May your hope give us hope,
May your love give us love.

-Bruce Springsteen

Anonymous

I miss you Mike so very much. It's been over a month now but still all I can think about is you and Kerrie & the kids. I want to help them, but I can't even help myself. Kerrie has become my inspiration. Her strength has been incredible. You would be so proud of her.

The town of Bradford will truly never be the same but seeing our community pull together and support your family and each other has been really amazing. I know your still here with us. You must be darn busy though, because I've never known anyone who touched so many lives in just 39 years.

Our kids miss you so much too. I don't think there are many adults out there with nicknames like basketball head & punk. Thank you for taking the time to show them how much you cared. Field trips will never be the same..ski days will never be the same...Youth sports will never be the same...nothing will ever be the same!!

I will never look at an officer the same. I've always respected them but now I hold you all on a very high pedistel. Thank you all for risking your lives each day for all of us.

Mike, I will never forget you.

Never Change :)

Anonymous

To All The Family, Friends, And Co-workers;
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all, for we feel and know your pain, for God has taken another Hero home. Thanks Michael and all the other Hero's , that have given there life's for our freedom. God Bless You All..

Betty
Sister of Officer Glenn H. Hicks EOW 02/20/03

Dear Kerri and family,

I sit here and read these messages and can't help but fill with sorrow for your loss. It has been over a month now, but many thoughts and prayers are with you every day.

May you find some comfort from knowing that you are not alone and that even those who were not close to Michael knew of him as a wonderful human being.

Please take care of yourself and your precious children.

Please accept our deepest sympathy
The Williams Family

Debra Williams
Wife of Vermont State Trooper

Mike, What are we going to do without you!? Reading all of these
messages over the past few weeks have made me realize how far you
have reached out to sooo many people! You would have been humbled
by this out-pouring of love and respect. Memories......the quick
grin...chowing down ANYTHING I baked or cooked.....the 'hey Sandy" I'd
hear suddenly over the phone or as you walked through the PGS store
door....pouring champagne at Kelly's wedding..playing that special song
at that wedding for David and me to dance to....you were the BEST!
Thanks for all you have done for us...for being only a phone call away.
We will all be there for Kerrie and the kids for ANYTHING. You will
ALWAYS be in my heart. I will work on trying to " Mike Johnson" my life.
Take care, my friend. We know you are watching over us all. The world
lost a good one that Sunday. Love you M.J. Sandy Gilderdale

Sandy Gilderdale
friend

They say it will get easier, I keep wondering "when?" I keep thinking of simpler times. Linda and I waking up, not knowing if it was you or Smoky at the bottom of our bed, sleeping at the foot of the bed. The jokes, Mike, I remember the jokes. Finding your "real" parents. Sure, try making believe you weren't a Johnson through and through, we all knew better. You singing at weddings, or at Smitty's gigs. You were such a ham. How about "Shout" or "Surfin USA". God, I thought Aunt Barbara was going to bust a gut the first time we did that. You made getting together as a family so much fun. You spent time with the kids, with each of us. We'll try, Mike, but it will never be the same. The kids miss you so much. You went to their ball games, you always told them how proud you were of them. You may have been my younger brother, but I knew you were always watching out for me. That's what keeps me going now. Knowing I can talk to you, and I do. I know that Grandma and Grandpa G&J, Uncle Bob, Uncle Bill, and Aunt Eileen are so happy to have you with them. I'm sure on Father's Day when you went to be with them the first thing they heard was "family, I'm home." I can just see the smile on Grandpa's face to see you again. We were lucky, you know. We grew up with a lot of love, and that shows now in our children. We will all pass that on to Reilly, Grandy, and McKendrick.

I miss you, and I love you.

Patti

Patti
your

M.J.
"Hello friend" Those two words always have... and always will remind me of you. Now...it will never be Goodbye....BUT just ... "Until we meet again".

Mike, know that all of us will be there for Keri and the kids, know that we will try and make them laugh and be silly, but none of us could do it like you...

M.J., you had a special gift while you were here with us
A gift that let us all know you cared...
A gift that let us all know you would be there whenever we needed...
A gift that could make us laugh...
A gift that let us all know that no matter what...You were a true friend...
A gift that allowed you to ALWAYS give 110%...

and now that you are gone...That gift lives on.... because when I think of you, I know that you cared, that you always were and always will be there, just the thought of you brings a smile to our faces, and I will always know we were true friends.

"Until we meet again Friend",
One of the three Killington Outpost Mike's
Det./Sgt. Michael C. Macarilla

Det./Sgt. M.C. Macarilla
Vermont State Police - BCI

-Memories keep flooding my mind, remembering times and thinking “Oh, I remember when we did that”, but wishing that I had only known to savor each and every moment while it was happening.
-Kicking myself for being “too cool” while growing up at family functions to get up and dance with you, no matter how silly we all looked. You sure knew how to have fun! And how to be free!
- Looking at old pictures and wishing I could jump into them to let you know how much you meant to me and to simply enjoy your energy and your smile.
-Thinking of you now, up there, probably sharing silly jokes with Grandpa and Uncle Bill, while Grandma shakes her head with a smile on her face.
-Remembering your funeral and realizing how many lives you have touched and how honestly and completely proud I am of the man you were.
-Awed by the support from your fellow officers, and left with a renewed respect for your profession. The courage that was in you to get up and go to work everyday is amazing.
-Hearing stories from people in your town who knew you so well, and wishing we were closer and saw each other more often. But so thankful that when we did see each other, it was like no time had passed at all.
-Thinking of your children and knowing that they will be okay because of who you taught them to be and the love that you have always shown them.
-Knowing that Kerrie had the very best of everything with you and it has made her stronger. She was comforting everyone that day; no hand left empty, no story was shortened, she met with them all, it was truly inspiring, you would have been so proud.
-Hoping that somehow, your parents, brothers and sisters will be alright, but knowing that it will never be the same, how could it be without you?
-Looking at everything differently now, but not with grief and anger, it is now with hope and joy and it is solely because of the way you lived your life and the example you set.
-So very thankful that you were in my life, and comforted by the fact that you will never leave my heart.

-But still wishing we had more time…

family member

I had the privlege of knowing Mike at t time when life was simple, back when we were at the U of S. Mike had a smile for everyone and although he seemed so big, he was just a gentle fun loving guy. I am thankful that I had the opportunity to spend time with Mike this past November. Unfortunatley we got together for a sad occasion, to bury another friend. Mike drove to Pennsylvania right before a holiday to be with us, his friends. He was still the same old Mike, however one thing had changed, now it was obvious that his favorite role was that of husband and father. We were all looking foward to getting together for the 4th of July on LBI. Mike had arranged a party and we couldn't wait for all of our families to spend time together. Well, this party never happened, as Mike was taken from all of us so suddenly, so tragically. Well Mike, I was on LBI this past weekend and I drove by your house, I had to stop and wipe my tears, but then I thought of you and smiled, I know that is what you would have wanted. I do not think LBI, or life in general will ever be the same without you. I know heaven is not the same, with you and Sandy there together it must be brighter than ever before. I pray that the 2 of you are there looking down on us and keeping an eye on things. Mike, I hope you realize your death made a difference in so many lives, just as your life made a difference in so many lives. I pray for your family because I know this must be unbearable for them. I am so sorry I was not able to attend your funeral but your family was in my thoughts and prayers that day and every day since. I will always be thankful I knew you and we will keep your memory alive. Rest in peace Mike.

AnnMarie Tatte (college friend)

My thoughts and prayers go out to Kerry and the kids, the Johnson family, friends, and the Vermont State Police. This tragic event has given me such a great respect for all Law Enforcement Officials and the sacrifices that they make every day to protect us. Mike although we would go months without talking I miss you every day knowing I can't pick up the phone and call you or drop you an email. You were a great friend and a wonderful person. I will cherish the memories. I love you and god bless.

Bob
Friend

I like to write poetry. I write what comes to heart and after the loss of one of the communities best officers this came to heart and i would love to share it with you..

A Fallen Officer

Blue lights behind you
Always makes you say, "Oh No!"
But you know they are here to
Protect, serve and take you down.

Kids grow-up knowing if they need protection
All they have to do is call
They come out with sirens and lights
To protect and save them.

On Father's Day
An Officer was out there
To protect, to help a fellow officer
To lend a hand.

He lost his life
Trying to save others
Running to his car
Struck from behind

His kids left father-less
His wife grieves over her loss
His family will never be the same
The tears fall down sad faces.

The guy was caught
In another state
Back he will come
But the officer will be gone forever

Everyone comes from near and far
Troopers, cars, vans, and more
All to stand side by side for
A fallen Officer.

Through town they creep
Residents stand on sidewalks
Tears streaking thier cheeks
Smiles upside down into frowns.

Everyone feels the loss
Of a resident, of a Officer,
A friend and a family member
One who protected our streets.

By the highway stands flowers
Squeel marks
And silence
As each car goes by
People remember the
Loss of
A fallen Officer

Dedicated to Officer Johnson

Endora Smith

to the family of mike johnson
may god bless you and keep you in this time of sorrow i hope all is well and may you keep your sprits up , your husband, father brother was our hero, he is more to you ,till you meet again,

kandi
friend

To Johnson Family,

I was so blessed to have known Mike during the time we spent at the University of Scranton. Mike and Bobby D were never too far apart. The most striking thing I remember was the smile Mike always had when he greeted people. I would receive updates through his friend Bob D, and although my own work committments kept me from attending the funeral I was with every brother and sisiter in blue in my thoughts. I will keep you in my prayers and will be grateful that I was able to know him.

He made a difference.

Det. I Nadine Panfile
Sussex County Prosecutor's Office

A TRUE AMERICAN HERO


VERMONT STATE POLICE SGT. MIKE JOHNSON IS A TRUE AMERICAN HERO. SGT. JOHNSON WAS TRAGICALLY KILLED IN THE LINE OF DUTY TWO WEEKS AGO TODAY BY A DESPERATE DRUG DEALER. AFTER SPENDING FATHER’S DAY WITH HIS WIFE, DAUGHTER AND TWO SONS, SGT. JOHNSON ANSWERED THE CALL TO DUTY TO ASSIST HIS BROTHER TROOPERS, UNAWARE OF THE DANGER THAT LAY AHEAD.

SGT. JOHNSON SERVED THE PEOPLE OF STATE OF VERMONT AS A DEDICATED VERMONT STATE TROOPER FOR 16 YEARS. HE DIED DOING WHAT HE LOVED TO DO.

MIKE IS REMEMBERED AS A DEVOTED HUSBAND, FATHER, SON, BROTHER, FRIEND, A STAR ATHLETE, A TREMENDOUS COACH AND A ROLE MODEL POLICE OFFICER.

I CAME TO KNOW MIKE IN 1991 AFTER COMPLETING THE ACADEMY. I WAS ASSIGNED TO THE RUTLAND BARRACKS. MIKE WAS MY FIRST TASTE OF THE REAL WORLD IN LAW ENFORCEMENT. AS MY FIELD TRAINING OFFICER MIKE WAS MY MENTOR, A TRUE LEADER BY EXAMPLE, MIKE’S HARD WORK ETHIC TAUGHT ME HOW TO BE A SUCCESSFUL TROOPER. MIKE AND I DEVELOPED A FRIENDSHIP ON AND OFF DUTY. I HAVE FOND MEMORIES OF MIKE AND HIS WIFE, KERRIE, WHO WOULD HAVE ME AND OTHERS OVER FOR DINNER AND WE WOULD SPEND MUCH OF OUR OFF-DUTY TIME TOGETHER DURING THE WINTERS SKIING AT KILLINGTON.

MIKE HAD A SPECIAL WAY WITH PEOPLE. MIKE COULD QUICKLY DEVELOP A POSITIVE RAPPORT WITH JUST ABOUT ANYONE AND RESPECTED EVERYONE. HE CONSTANTLY WENT OUT OF HIS WAY TO TALK WITH PEOPLE AND HELP THEM IN ANY CAPACITY HE POSSIBLY COULD. WE WILL NEVER FORGET HIS SENSE OF HUMOR, CONSTANT SMILING FACE, WHICH LED TO HIS NICKNAME “HAPPY” OR MIKE ENTERING THE ROOM AND SAYING “HEY FRIEND”.

WE WOULD MOVE ON THROUGH PROMOTIONS AND TRANSFERS AND KEEP IN TOUCH ON OCCASION, BUT THE SPECIAL BOND OF A BROTHERHOOD CAN NEVER BE BROKEN.

THE SUPPORT GIVEN TO THE JOHNSON FAMILY BY PEOPLE IN THE COMMUNITY IS LIKE THAT OF SOMETHING I HAVE NEVER SEEN. HOW EVERYONE CAN COME TOGETHER IN A TIME OF NEED SHOWS THE TRUE COMPASSION OF MANKIND AND HAS MADE US STRONGER.

THE LOSS OF SGT. MIKE JOHNSON REMINDS ALL OF US OF THE DANGERS THOSE WHO SERVE TO PROTECT THE PUBLIC FACE EACH AND EVERY DAY. SGT. JOHNSON MADE THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE IN GIVING HIS LIFE FOR PROTECTING ALL OF US. LIKE MANY BEFORE HIM THEIR SACRIFICES WERE MADE SO YOU AND I AND OUR LOVED ONES COULD BE HERE TODAY.

SGT. MIKE JOHNSON, YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN..... SGT. MIKE JOHNSON IS A TRUE AMERICAN HERO......

MAY GOD BLESS SGT. JOHNSON, HIS FAMILY AND ALL OF THOSE WHO HAVE GIVEN THEIR LIVES IN THE LINE OF DUTY.

(RECITED AT "HONOR OUR HEROS" ON 06-29-03. MIKE YOU WILL BE MISSED.... JOHN)

Sgt. John Flannigan
Vermont State Police

As I return to this page often and reflect upon the circumstances of each officer's situation in an attempt to somehow make it a learning experience, I often come back to your name.

The ultimate price was paid on a day that was to be spent with your wife and children, set aside for Dad's alone.

When I think about why this had to happen it makes me reflect back at why in the world I would ever want this job when any given day could be my last with my wife and children.

To the wife and children of Sgt. Johnson, the answer to the question why did dad have to go to work and where is my husband is, few people in the world today have the courage and honor to stand up for others and protect those who can not protect themselves. And while we, as peace officers, often forget to notice, we make a difference to someone everyday we serve.

Your sacrifice goes well beyond on your courageous acts in the line of duty. It serves as a reminder to every peace officer/father in the country to kiss your wife good-bye, cherish your child’s smile, and take time to be happy with your family. For on the day that God shall dispatch us to the ultimate call, we will answer that call with honor, with courage, and the hope that someday our families will understand why.

N/A
Dallas County Sheriff's Office, Iowa

TO: Vermont State Police

My prayers are with Sgt. Johnson & his family. They say time heals, I don't believe that. You will all have good days and bad days. Sgt.Michael Johnson will be with you on all of them.

PTLM Martin E. Gannon
Lancaster,MA. PD

God bless you Mike and your family, you will be missed

SSG Richard Gray
Fort Hood Military Police

MJ,

You were a great role model and a terrific friend. I know you are making life a better place where you are now. Please take comfort in knowing that we will watch over Kerrie and the children. Dan Bedell couldn't make it to the funeral but, he went to the store on the day of the funeral, bought some of your favorite beverage, pretzel rods and clam dip as the three of us had done many times in the past and reflected on the good times we had. I miss you buddy.

Ptl. Daniel Eickenberg
Shelburne, Vt PD

Even in South Texas we have been affected by the loss of a brother officer. You've joined the ranks of too many other fallen heros. Rest easy now, the rest of us will shoulder your burdens, for today the thin, blue line grew that much thinner.

Senior Patrol Agent Erik R. Lavallee
United States Border Patrol

I had the privilege of being within Mike's inner circle of friends at the University of Scranton. We have been separated by miles, but have still maintained a close knit group. Mike had such a love of life, and lived it to the fullest. I will always have the memory of Mike's smile and bear hug. He was taken way too soon, but it is evident how much he accomplished in the time he was here, which stands as a barometer for the rest of us.
To Kerrie, Reilly, Grady, McKendrick and the rest of Mike's family - I can only begin to imagine the pain you are going through, but know that my prayers are with you, and my heart is heavy.
To Mike, a great friend and fellow law enforcement officer, thank you for all your hard work, dedication, and your final act of bravery...Rest in peace knowing how much you were loved.

Claire Brennan
DEA (Retired)

Bumpky:

You were so much more than a Super trooper. Super Dad, Super husband, Super man, Super son, Super Brother and Super Friend. I can't believe its been two weeks today since our tragic loss, and what a loss it is. You are the kind of person most people could only dream of becoming some day. I look forward to the day when I can see you again. Never forget how much I love you and always will.

Linner

I never had the honor to work with Sgt. Johnson but from what I hear, I wish I could have. You dared do a job many people do not venture into. You kept us safe and you payed with your life. Not just the citizens of Vermont but yet all in this great country owe you and your family more than we will ever be able to give. May the Lord comfort you and watch over your family. JUSTICE WILL BE SWIFT AND SEVERE!

DISPATCHER
VERMONT STATE POLICE