Officer Down Memorial Page

God bless. He is of Manx origin (his ancestors came from the Isle of Man, and is not part of the United Kingdom).

Vasili
April 17, 2013

Rest in Peace Brother, we have the Watch

Policeman
Phoenix Police, Brother in Blue
April 5, 2013

Melissa Christian & family:
I am a former ACCPD (Badge 2357) Officer who was working during the time when Buddy made the ultimate sacrifice! I now live and work in Delaware and still continue to send thoughts and prayers to you and your family! He will not be forgotten.

Patrolmen Howey-Newcomb
Smyrna Police Department
January 31, 2013

Thank you for your service and for helping to make America a safer place.

Deputy Brian Jones
Boulder County Sheriff's Office, CO
December 12, 2012

i feel so sadened when i read about these tragic stories, i am a police officer in australia and it takes a special person to do this job, wanting to keep the community safe even if it has dire consequences, your a brother in arms and glad he has such a loving family, RIP mate

first class constable
western australian police
August 6, 2012

Hi baby, We are just getting settled back in from our trip to DC. The Police Unity Tour was amazing. I met some awesome people along the way and I know you are so proud. I DID IT all 270 miles and I know that you were with me as always. I rode with your patch on my jersey and the badge that you carried in your wallet was attached to my bike. It was an honor to ride for you and all fallen officers. My emotions hit me on the second day. There were 186 in our chapter riding and each had a special officer they were riding for. They had pictures on their bikes and patches on their jerseys. It was overwhelming to think about. How could this world be missing so many amazing people. The feeling of accomplishment when we rode into DC was worth every minute of the tough journey.

The kids had a great time in DC. They enjoyed their first plane ride and looked so cute in their little ACCPD uniforms with brass like yours. The three of us placed the flower for you on the wreath at the ceremony at the capital. I know you would have been amazed by everything. It was all very overwhelming and comforting all at the same time. I was able to meet some of the families from GA, and families and officers from other states as well. Seeing your name on the memorial is hard to comprehend. Just another reminder that this is reality and not just a dream.

And, our baby girl graduated Kindergarten last night. It also happened to be 14 months since the day you didn't come home from work. It was a tough day for me. This was one of the first big things for Callie that you missed. I remember the day we took her to K4 for the first time, and how proud you were. And now you were not here to see her go to K5 and not here for her graduation as she becomes a 1st grader. I know you were so proud of her as she sang in her play and accepted her diploma. She is your buttercup after all. I prayed that God pulled back the clouds and let you see our precious girl. And, I know my prayers were answered because as we left the graduation it started to rain. I tend to think they were tears from heaven.

Between now and then I will be loving you... LOVE ME!

Melissa Christian
loving wife of Buddy Christian
May 23, 2012

Melissa,
I am watching the live feed of the memorial in DC-for some reason you & your small children caught my attention as they read your husband's name.
I just wanted to send love & hugs to you from California.
I have been where you are-8 years ago I lost my David, our children were ages 17-30.
So I know the path you are walking-
Buddy sounds likes he was a wonderful man and my heart is heavy for you.

Richie Grant
Surviving spouse of Deputy David Grant/EOW/5/31/04
Tuolumne Co Sheriff's Dept
Sonora, Ca.

Richie Grant/wife of Deputy Dave Grant
May 15, 2012

Hi Baby, I have found my way to this page tonight on this the week of the start of the police unity tour and the national memorial in DC. This is truly the greatest honor that I wish I never had to do.
I have not been to his page very often, because it is still so hard to see your name here in black and white. However, I wanted to leave this note for you as I start the unity tour in your honor. I am so proud of you. I know you can't believe what an impact you made on the lives of so many people. You are truly a man of God and your children have the greatest hero of all to look up to. I still receive stories from people I have never met who tell me how they met you only once, but will never forget you and how you helped them. I know you are proud of our community and how they have embraced our story and came to our needs in so many ways.
This year has been such a roller coaster. I feel that I have come so far and get stronger every day, but on the other hand I feel so lost and still can't imagine life without you in it. We were just kids when we met and grew up together. Our wedding day was the best day ever. It was perfect in every way. I love my ring that you gave me when we celebrated our 15 years together one month before that tragic day. I have never lived on my own, and yet now I am a single mother trying to hold it all together. It is still so hard to believe that this world no longer has you in it. I still find myself saying Oh, I have to tell Buddy this or that when he gets home. I remember every detail of that day and the few days prior to the tragic day. We had a date night on that Saturday before, and date nights were few and far between. We both missed the kids so much we never wanted to leave them behind. That evening was so much fun. Nothing extravagant just the two of us out to dinner and a walk around the mall, but somehow it seemed like a perfect evening. I remember our last evening with you at home you took the kids for a ride on Papa's old John Deere L tractor while I fed all the animals. I remember talking to you on the phone just one hour before that tragic event would take place. It was like any other numerous phone call conversation that we had. We talked about the kids and how you planned to spend the evening when you got home. Little did I know that at that moment when I heard you say I love you it would be the last words you spoke to me. I love you so much with all my heart, and long for the day to run to you again and wrap my arms around you so tight. When I was told of the events that had happened I was in total shock. How could it be, you always promised me you would never leave me and you would always come home to me and the kids. And, yet March 22, 2011 would be the day that you left for work just like any other, but never returned home. I never heard the sound of you coming in the door, and the sound that your vest would make as you took it off ever again. That sound was always a sigh of relief, I never knew that I would miss it so much. I thought that the worst thing that had ever happened to me was when police officers met me at work with this terrible news, but then I realized that I had two precious children to try to explain this too. They were only 5 and 2 they should not even know that there are bad people in this world much less that one of them has killed their father that they love so much. I know you are so proud of them and I am sure that you check in on them from time to time. I told them that you are always in their heart and they can talk to you whenever they want. I remind them every day how much you love them and will always make sure that they remember and know how awesome their daddy is. It breaks my heart when they get upset that you are not here. Callie understands as best she can that you are in heaven and she will see you again. But, Wyatt has no idea or concept he still thinks that you will come home at any moment. It is just so hard to see it through their eyes. You are the greatest daddy in the world. I thought that was the worst day, and yet harder things still come. I have faced your killer in the court room and have had to sit there and not say a word as he complains about his rights. The road to justice will be a long one, but I intend to be there for you as I know you would be for me. I have come a long way since that day. When I look at pictures of me before that day I think who is that person she has no idea. I thought that I was strong and independent little did I know that I was far from it. I wanted to give up and throw in the towel, but all I could hear was you saying "come on girl, cowgirl up". So I did, and I know that you are proud of the kids and I. It is amazing how strong you can be when strong is the only option you have. People often ask me how do you do it how do you survive. Well surviving is the option I have. God still has a plan for me on this earth and I have to see it through. I just keep putting my feet on the ground every morning and hug our children tight. I know you are proud that I have (somewhat) overcome my fear of talking in crowds. And, that I have started a foundation in your name to help other fallen officers families and to enhance the safety of law enforcement departments. And, can you believe that I now have two tattoos in memory of you. One on my right shoulder that has a picture that you drew for me in high school and in your handwriting the words that we often told each other...Between now and then until I see you again I will be loving you LOVE ME....And, one my right side with blue roses and your SPO badge complete with your number and wedding rings on each side. I know you would say Howboutcha!
I have somehow made it through a year of first including our children's birthdays, our birthdays, wedding anniversary, and Christmas without you here to hold my hand and kiss me goodnight. I can still feel your presence sometimes and will hold you to your promise that you said you would never leave me and would love me forever. In just a few days I will start the police unity tour that goes from Virginia in DC. I am riding in your honor and memory and also for three other officers whose stories have inspired me. I feel that this ride is a symbol of my journey over the past year. There have been hills and valleys pain and strive, but through it all God is and will be by my side.... "For I know the plans that I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you" Jeremiah 29:11.
So, baby as I continue this journey always stay in my heart and know that I will always love you. You gave me and the children your best and now it is our turn to keep your name going with your foundation and help others just as you loved to do.
So, here I go cowgirl up! and between now and then until I see you again I will be loving you LOVE ME!!!

Melissa Christian
loving wife of Buddy Christian
May 8, 2012

I am a police officer from Newport, RI and a rider in the Police Unity Tour. The tour is a 300 mile bicycle ride from New Jersey to Washington DC during Police Week to pay tribute and spread awareness of our fallen officers.

This year, it my honor to be riding in you memory this year. You will never be forgotten, rest easy brother.

Officer Joe Carroll
Newport, RI Police Department
March 22, 2012

You are honored today Sir, RIP

James Kotke
Civilian / Former Officer
WSF Park Police (Wi.)
March 22, 2012

Rest in Peace, Senior Police Officer Christian. Your sacrifice is not forgotten.

Officer 11169
February 17, 2012

Thank you for your service Sir, RIP now.

James Kotke
Civilian / Former Officer
WSF Park Police (Wi.)
February 15, 2012

Buddy was a great friend. I have never met anyone like him and I am sure that God truly did break the mould when he created him. Buddy never met a stranger and always was there to help no matter what. He will forever be missed.

SPO Mark Heath
Athens-Clarke County Police/ Fellow Shiftmate
February 1, 2012

To the family and friends of Officer Elmer "Buddy" Christian, his fellow officers, and most especially to Buddy:

We honor your service to your community as a law enforcement officer and you will always be remembered and revered. Rest in Peace.

On behalf of our entire family, I wish to extend our sincerest condolences on the grievous loss you suffered when Buddy was killed in the line of duty. It is obvious he was well-loved by many and well-respected by his peers as reflected in the loving reflections left for him.

May his loved ones continued to be supported by their law enforcement family and other police survivors. Our family grieves with you and for you. To Buddy's family, you are in my heart's embrace today. I share your parents anquish in losing a beloved child which surely has to be life's greatest sorrow. As we are fast approaching both their first Christmas without you and your eow anniversary date, they are all in my thoughts and prayers during these difficult days.

This reflection is sent with the utmost respect for the years of distinquished service Buddy gave to his community and the citizens of Georgia, and the supreme sacrifice he and his family made on March 22 , 2011

Phyllis Loya
Mom of fallen California Officer Larry Lasater, Pittsburg PD, eow 4/24/05
December 23, 2011

Sleep well brother...

Staff Sergeant
Grady County Sheriff's Office
November 25, 2011

I have the honor of doing a school project on Officer Christian. Thank you for your tour. Your EOW will NEVER be forgotten.

Allie Muhlstadt
CJA
October 13, 2011

Buddy,

I had the opportunity to be on shift with you during my time with the ACCPD. You were an exceptional person who always loved to joke and have fun, never forgetting the job that needed to get done. This combination of sensitivity, responsibility, humor and a true sense of honor is what made you unique. You never let yourself get sucked into a cynical joke or comment, always maintaining a positive attitude. You surely were one of the best of us. I miss you, I know thousands others do as well. I'm not sure what happens when we die, but I do know what happens when we are alive. Having known you has surely made my life more fulfilled. Like all of my brothers in ACCPD, I love you and might see you one day again.

-Richie

Detective Richie Boyle
Athens-Clarke County Police Dept.
October 13, 2011

Brother, I never had the pleasure of meeting you.
I worked with Officer Howard At CCSO for many years before he joined ACCPD.
The day I learned of the shooting, I prayed for both You and Tony to pull through. Although you didn't make it. You impacted the community more than any words could ever express.
The day you were laid to rest, I was driving along Atlanta highway in Athens.
I can not express the emotions I felt seeing all the people lined along the roadways. One child held a sign that read” our Hero". After seeing that I lost it.
You were indeed a hero, and a role model for others to come.
Go Rest High On That Mountain Sir, Your work on earth is done. and you did it well.

Corporal Jeff Walker
Clarke County Sheriff's office (retired)
September 12, 2011

I had the honor of attending the Buddy Christian Way dedication today. Your story is well known here at the Academy. We hold you and your family in our prayers. Thank you for your sacrifice, you will not be forgotten.

C.Sullivan
Athens Regional Police Academy Cadet
July 11, 2011

Officer Christian,

I live in Madison County and I never met you, but your life has impacted mine greatly. I am married with a 2 year old daughter and I am in the process of becoming an Athens Clarke County Police Officer. Your live and death touch my heart so deeply. I pray for your family everyday. I hope to one day wear a Clarke County Police badge with honor and hopefully come close to being the man that you were.

With Great Love,

Lee Crosby

Gary Lee Crosby
ACCPD applicant
June 10, 2011

Having gone to the academy in Athens and being a former resident there, your death hit close to home.

RIP, sir. My thoughts are with you, your family, and ACCPD.

Ptl. Kevin Loop
Albany, GA PD
May 15, 2011

your walking heavens beat now.....god bless brother

Anonymous
May 4, 2011

RIP SPO Christian. May God bless your family in their time of grief and in their time of healing after your life was taken by a huge coward. One officer killed in the line of duty is one too many, and we have lost 60 officers this year. I pray God watches over us all as we put on the badge each day and report for duty.

Sgt A Cox
Forsyth Co SO
April 19, 2011

I come to the ODMP often to remember my late fiancé Dennis. Every time I come here it breaks my heart to know that yet another officer has fallen and that yet another family has to live their lives without the officer they loved. My heart goes out to everyone who knew and loved Officer Christian. Know that you are not alone in the "journey" that you walk. Should you ever need anything please don't hesitate to contact me. (The Davis Co. Sheriff's Office in Iowa will always know how to reach me. I can also be found on Face Book.) You will be in my thoughts.

From reading the reflections left for Buddy, he sounds like he was a great man with a beautiful spirit. Those of you who knew him in life were so blessed to have been able to share in it. I hope that you will all continue to find a way to celebrate and remember Buddy's life and the MAN that he was. Remember that Buddy's life was about so much more than the way he died. Buddy will continue to live on as long as we continue to remember him.

Officer Christian, thank you for helping to make this world a little safer for us all. YOU will not be forgotten. Please continue to watch over all of us as only you can. If you happen to bump into my late fiancé Dennis up there give him a big hug for me and the kids. It's been eight years and he's still very much missed and forever loved.

Wishing you brighter and better days,


Jocelyne :)

"Forever Remembering 26-3"

Jocelyne Brar (Winnipeg, MB Canada)
Fiancée of Deputy Dennis R. McElderry (EOW: 01/03/03)
April 12, 2011

Buddy, I only got to work with you for a short time before I went to another department. You were the Godliest and most honorable police officer I have ever had the pleasure of working with! God bless your family and the Athens-Clarke County Police Department! Thanks for your service and dedication.

Former co-worker
April 9, 2011