 | Trooper Marienus J. Segeren
New Jersey State Police
New Jersey
Sunday, July 25, 1971 |
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
2007-12-12
We'll never forget you Trooper! Cpl/1 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police
2007-07-25
I knew 'Rennie' when we worked at Hussman Refrigeration in the early 60's. He could always make you laugh. We both went into Law enforcement within a few months of each other.
It is hard to believe that today has been 36 years since his death. Tonight his family will be in my prayers. May he continue to be in my thoughts for many years to come. Chief Andrew Fox (retired)
Gloucester Twp. Police
2007-07-25
I think about you every day Daddy!! I sincerely wish I knew you better! Mommy prays that you are behind her when she goes through the really tough times with us children; even though we are 39 years of age and above!
Please always stay in our dreams!
Ilove you,
Jill
We al talk about you often!!
2006-03-26
God bless you, Trooper Segeren, and thank you for your noble service. Rest in heavenly peace. Karl
2004-11-08
 Return to top
No Reflections may be electronically reproduced without permission from the ODMP. Please use this contact form for further information or to report violations. | 
