Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Officer Hawkins,
On today, the 50th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country-not just as a Law Enforcement Officer but also when you served with the U.S. Army in Vietnam as a member of the 14th Infantry Regiment-the “Golden Dragons” which was part of the 25th “Tropic Lightning” Infantry Division. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

Golden Dragons-Right Of The Line!

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

February 15, 2022

The proud men and women of the United States Park Police will never forget the ultimate sacrifice of Officer Raymond Hawkins and his surviving family. The selfless actions of our Fallen Heroes are the foundation of our core values (Integrity ~ Honor ~ Service). During Police Week, each year, we re-affirm and re-dedicate our commitment by honoring your service, your memory, and your sacrifice.

Chief of Police Rob MacLean
United States Park Police

May 6, 2016

On April 28, 2016, Charles Hopkins pled guilty to the brutal, first degree murder of Officer Raymond L. Hawkins. He was sentenced to life in prison, of which all but 65 years were suspended. Hopkins has been incarcerated since 1972.

On December 23, 1971, Officer Hawkins was shot while off-duty as he attempted to thwart the robbery of a 7-11 in Prince George’s County, Maryland. Officer Hawkins had subdued the robber when his accomplice shot him from behind. Hopkins was originally sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole, but due to improper jury instructions in that trial, he was recently granted the opportunity for a new trial.

The case was prosecuted by the Prince George’s County State’s Attorney’s Office. Although the outcome of this sentencing was far from just, the Force applauds the States Attorney’s office for their commitment and dedication to this case.

Members of the Hawkins' family, the United States Park Police, and the Prince George's County Police Department attended the hearing in unity, for justice and to honor the ultimate sacrifice of a true HERO. Chief MacLean testified and the Hawkins’ family submitted written testimony, which was read into the record.

The spirit and ultimate sacrifice of Raymond L. Hawkins and his surviving family epitomize the core values of this Force (Integrity ~ Honor ~ Service). We will never forget…

Chief of Police Rob MacLean
United States Park Police

April 29, 2016

The United States Park Police regrets to announce the death of Mrs. Dorothy Hawkins, mother of Officer Raymond Hawkins (who died in the line of duty in 1972) and patron of the Hawkins Award, on Sunday, March 1, 2015. She was 99 years old. Mrs. Hawkins routinely attended the Hawkins Award ceremonies until her health prohibited it. She would make homemade cookies for each recipient and considered all of "us" her children. In her passing, she has willed enough to fund the Hawkins award in virtual perpetuity. Retired USPP Horse Mounted Officer Kenny Donovan has been her advocate/caregiver. God Bless You Dorothy Hawkins and your son. We will forever remember you and your family.

Chief of Police Rob MacLean
United States Park Police

March 5, 2015

I was working a foot beat at the Jefferson memorial late one winter evening when the report of Hawkins being shot came over the force radio.
Like many young officers at the time we took turns standing guard at his hospital room because the shooter had not been found. It was hard to watch as his family & fiancée ( who witnessed the shooting ) came in day after day hoping and praying for his recovery.

HMP Ofc. Bob W.
U.S.P.P.

March 5, 2015

Officer Raymond Hawkins was one of the first heroes I learned about in the Park Police when I joined in 1975. His dedication to duty served as a touchstone for me. We will never forget his service and contribution to a better world.

Pepper Karansky, Sergeant
U S Park Police, Retired

March 5, 2015

All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing. May you rest in peace and may the lord give peace and strength to your family and to your associates in the law enforcement community.

Roger A. Gross
Captain, U S Park Police, Retired

April 18, 2014

The Christmas lights on our street where Ray lived were dimmed from that night and throughout the season. Our lives were dimmed by the loss of a hero, a friend, a 'sport' with a broad smile and a heart of gold. These reflections mean alot to those who loved Ray, especially Denny Beck who saw him that fateful night. It changed my life forever. My daughter is named for him and I am proud and lucky to have known and loved him as a brother.

Nancy Harvey Gillan
Friend

July 25, 2012

You were a TRUE American Hero Sir, Thank you for your service in the military as well as the police force Sir.

James Kotke
Civilian / Former Officer
WSF Park Police (Wi.)

February 15, 2012

Your heroism and service to your community as an law enforcement officer and to your country as a Vietnam veteran is honored today, the 40th 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 murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect and your memory will always be honored and revered. Thanks to Special Agent Beck for his moving reflection.

Rest In Peace

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

February 15, 2012

Ray:
I think about the terrible waste of your life. We were classmates in rookie school. After the shooting I was one of your friends who was assigned to sit in your hospital room and talk to you and to make sure that no more harm could be done to you. After your death your family asked that I be a pall bearer. No greater honor can be given to me. Rest in peace my friend.

Roger

Sergeant Roger F. Phillips (ret.)
United States Park Police

November 23, 2010

Ray

It's been 28 years since you passed and at times it seems like yesterday. I remember our times as patrol offices at the D-5 substation with great fondness. Your dedication to duty will be remembered by those of us who knew you well. God Bless

Bill Frazier, Captain (Retired)
U.S. Park Police

November 21, 2010

Officer Raymond Leonard Hawkins,

We in law enforcement are sworn to uphold the law. And when we do it is expected that we always act in a manner that is consistent with equity and fairness. Never are we permitted to act as the vicious trash that would enter a business place, produce a gun and threaten the lives of human beings striving to earn an honest living. When you suddenly encountered such a situation, Officer Hawkins, you acted consistent with all your training and even you attempted effect an arrest without firing your weapon, even though you would have been fully justified. That some scoundrel would inflict the wounds that would later take your life is yet another lesson to all of us who wear a badge that fairness is only a word. One who would produce a gun to rob another is unworthy of another breath, and, along with he that would conspire to aid such a robber, by taking the life of an officer treating them with disciplined restraint, should be introduced to the fires of hell. You are the model of courage, the ultimate standard of fairness and the truest respresentation of a soldier of the law.

Tonight, as many as would gaze into the darkened skies and see only stars, those of us who are law officers see a legion of heros standing shoulder-to-shoulder, whose badges shine brightly, welcomng yet another hero, Officer Raymond Leonard Hawkins, of the United States Park Police. Well done officer, ....well done.

Cpl. Ralph D. Fiorenza (Ret.)
Pennsylvania State Police

July 2, 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 © 1993 - All Rights Reserved
and may not be duplicated without permission

Investigator David L Bell
Richland County Sheriff's Dept., Columbia, SC

March 27, 2008

Officer Hawkins,
On today, the 36th anniversary of your murder, I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country-not just as a police officer but also for your service in Vietnam as well. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
Anonymous

Anonymous

February 15, 2008

YOU ARE REMEMBERED TODAY AND THANK YOU SIR FOR YOUR SERVICE, YOU ARE A HERO JUST BY THE PROFESSION YOU CHOSE

VANDENBERGHE
MACHESTER, NH

February 10, 2008

Just minutes before Officer Hawkins was shot, he and I exchanged Christmas greetings inside the 7-ll. We also talked briefly about my becoming a police officer in PG County. Upon leaving the store, I saw the white/red Cadillac setting in the parking lot. Before I reached my home, there were already emergency vehicles responding, and I'd heard on my scanner about the hold-up and shooting of an officer. I called the dispatcher and gave them a description of the vehicle I'd spotted with three occupants inside. With the exception of the store manager and possibly the suspects, I was most likely the last person to speak with Officer Hawkins. One year later, and now a police officer, I was cruising along Pennsylvania Ave. when an APB was given for a white/blue Mustang with several occupants who were wanted for armed robbery in the District. I spotted the vehicle and took pursuit, calling for a backup since I was out of my jurisdiction. When I got the car stopped, it was determined that it was stolen, and was indeed the suspect vehicle. Two of the suspects in that car were involved in the hold-up and murder of Officer Hawkins the year prior. My deepest, most heart-felt respect is for Officer Hawkins and his courage and bravery on that fateful night in December 1971. My only wish would have been to be a police officer at that time, and to have been able to do something that might have saved his precious life. God bless him!

S/A Denny Beck
US-OPM

February 16, 2007

Rest in Peace

Explorer Chris Chappell
US Park Police

July 31, 2004

You truly are a legend with the United States Park Police. The top graduate from each and every Park Police class is titled "THE HAWKINS AWARD WINNER". Your name will ALWAYS live on with us and your story is that of a true hero. Both a Vietnam veteran and a heroic police officer. Thank you. Thank you for your service with both our military and our police force.

Private
United States Park Police

June 7, 2004