 | Trooper First Class Phillip Lee Russ
Maryland State Police
Maryland
Saturday, October 28, 1972 |
"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
2008-02-18
Rest in peace as we will always remember you. Cpl/1 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police
2007-10-28
You are remembered today and thank you Sir for your service Pat Van Den Berghe, Manchester, NH
Neighbors for a Better Manchester, NH
2007-10-26
We offer our heartfelt sympathy to the family, friends and colleagues of Trooper Russ and we honor his distinguished service to the cause of justice and peace. Sadly, our nation has lost one of its finest citizens, a community has lost a friend and protector, and a family has lost an example of character and courage who they will love and respect forever. Today, because of the sacrifice Trooper Russ has made, the house of freedom is stronger, sturdier, and more secure.
To the family and friends of Trooper Russ, I would like you to know that a lot of people pray for you, and my hope is that their prayers will give you the strength necessary to move on. Just as you were always with him when he walked the beat or patrolled the streets, know that he will always be with you - wherever you may be. In the days to follow, may you be strengthened by the fact that Trooper Russ is a man distinguished by exceptional courage and will always be admired for his brave deeds and noble qualities. You, your family and your sacrifice will never be forgotten. Special Agent
FBI New York
2007-04-21
It has been 35 years since we last saw each other at Graduation from Flight School at Ft. Rucker. I still cherish your friendship and remember the good times we had back then. I hope Janice and your children have faired well since you were lost.
Your Friend,
Stephen E. James Stephen E. James (CPT,USAR Ret.)
Van Buren Co. Arkansas Dep. Prosecuting Attorney
2006-01-26
Had you lived, you'd be close to retirement. After all these years you are still remembered with love from one coast of America to the other.
Lynn Kole
Washington State
2005-02-02
God Speed Trooper Russ
2004-12-25
On the anniversary of your death, I salute you for your service and honor you for your sacrifice.
Rest in peace.
2004-10-28
No officer that gave his life should be without reflection……
“For those who pledge to uphold it, Freedom requires a sacrifice the protected will never know”
Anonymous
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