Policeman Phillip J. Riley

Hey Riles. It’s Cima. We met in the 8th grade. We got into a scuffle at school and we were both sent to the vice principal’s office. While we were waiting, you extended you hand and said “My name is Phil Riley. I’m from Aurora, Colorado.” I shook your hand and I said I was Randy Cima, and we became best friends after that. You always called me “Cima,” and so did you mom and dad and little brother. I always called you Riles. You were my best man at my wedding.

Way back then you wanted to be a pilot. You read books, studied, took tests, and you got your license. You were an ex-Marine by then, you liked the military, you respected law and order, and you thought about becoming a policeman for awhile. You did. About a year after you were on the force I remember you telling me you couldn’t wait get up in the morning to put on your uniform. You didn’t want to be a pilot anymore. You wanted to be a policeman. You said you loved being a cop. Me and the rest of your buddies figured you’d be Chief of Police some day. We knew you were smart, dedicated, and honest. Then came that day 50 years ago today.

I saw Nancy at our 50th high school reunion. We talked about you. You met Nancy in the 8th grade too. You two were together through high school until you got married. You had just put a down payment on a new home in Orange county. You loved kids. We all figured the two of you would have a bunch of them. Then came that day 50 years ago today.

I never forgot you Riles. This is the 50th October 25th, and I remember every one of them. I still see a few of the guys that are left from those days. They never forgot you either. We've all missed you for a long time. Love you pal.

Randy Cima

Best friend
Best Friend

October 25, 2021