Police Officer Alfred L. Gordon, Sr.

Al, to this day I am thankful for the time we got to talk at work, share our common likes for food and the days of old. I thank you for conversations that were meant for us to learn and expand our wisdom. I remember when I left the airport and you and the squad wanted to get me a gift. It was you that wanted to present me with a Harley gift card. It was generous and I was able to get a new comfortable seat and back rest for long trips. It was so nice to ride.

I returned from my first long trip with that seat and could not wait to get to to work to send you a note to say thank you. It meant that much to me. It would be two days before I was back at work. I guess two days too long. I got the call from Tom V. who told me what had happened. I am not sure if I have ever been more saddened from anything like that in this job. The joy I was waiting to share was taken, just as your were. My mind went to Beverly and all the plans you had made. The cruise you had coming up that had me excited for you both. Plans forever altered by the evil we never seem to be able to stop.

I was later selected to go to motors and one of the first major details I had, was to travel to DC for police week. The greatest honor I had was to assist in the escorting of Beverly and your family from the airport to the hotel where the families of the fallen gathered. It was a cold and wet day, but one that meant so much to me. Each time I still ride on that seat, and I still do, I think of you. I tell everyone the story of how Al helped me get that seat. Each time I think of okra, corn and tomato soup, I think about how I shared the recipe with you and we shared our fond memories tied to our beloved Southern cuisine. You were always sharp in your uniform. You were so professional when you were here to assist with fallen soldiers returning home to their families as an Airport Honor Guard. Your photo still hangs here from one of those ceremonies.

You are missed!

A Fading Brother
OPD

October 4, 2019