Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Brother George

I never met you, and never shook your hand or shared a laugh with you. I know that God has reasons for everything, but it is really hard for us to understand sometimes when we are still here on earth. I miss you without knowing you, and weep for your family and loved ones with deep sadness and also Joy. One day I will meet you, Officer DeSalvia. And we will rejoice in God's Glory together, and therein is the Joy, for in Heaven our badges never tarnish.

I pray God will bless and heal your family and strengthen them.

Ptl J. Binge
Saraland P.D.

As a Police Explorer I Don't really know how it is to be a Police Officer, One of the reasons I want to be a Officer is because of heros like Officer De Salvia. I was very hurt by the death of Officer De Salvia. May GOD bless his family at this time of need. He is now in a much better place with GOD. You will not be forgotten

Police Explorer
Baldwin Park School Department

george, although we never met in person we did pass each other in the halls of the academy. (you graduated a couple months before i did) when i heard of your death it broke my heart, i should have been out there that night but i took the night off. i remember waking to the sound of the news telling of 2 officers shot and my mind started racing wondering who it could be... was it andrews, diaz, guckian? who? i never would have suspected the fallen brother to have been you... and now as i wear the ominous black band over my badge i sit and think why did such a life have to be taken in such a manner? i cant come up with an explanation as to why your career in law enforcement was cut so short. God only knows his reasons for taking such an outstanding officer from our ranks. but rest now man, i guess he just needed another officer up there to patrol heavens streets. i pray for cynthia and your family that they can be comforted in this time. and as i patrol my zone in the west central, you'll always be right there riding with me, answering my signal 44's. love ya man.

D/S M. Pierce
Orange County Sheriff's office

I never knew you, but if anyone should ask, I can tell them what you were. You were vigilant; when many of us were lying down to sleep, and you were at roll call, preparing for a nightly tour. You were brave; all of us are cautious and fearful of danger, you stood up to it. You were young; many are saddened that you left them so soon. You were concerned; You backed your brother's play, and you were there when called upon. You are a hero; I do know you, and I will remember your name. God Bless.

He keepeth the paths of judgement, and preserveth the way of his saints. Proverbs 2:8

Anonymous

Police officers everywhere can wear their badge with a little more pride knowing it represents officers like George DeSalvia.  God bless his family, friends and members of the Orlando Police department.  A small part of America died when his young life was taken, and he will never be forgotten for his supreme sacrifice.

Ofc. Philip J. McKay Jr
Holyoke MA Police department

My heart is sadden by our loss of a wonderful person. One who puts his life on the line day in and day out deserves more respect than will ever be given to him. As a Central Florida residant, I am thankful for being placed under the watch of officers like George DeSalvia. I pray that all officers out there will keep their strength and prevail against the bitter nightmares that awaits them. I hope to soon be in law enforcement, and I pray that I can live up to the expectations to do so. Officer DeSalvia and family, thank you for your love, and in return, I am sorry. God bless you all.

Explorer Jason Wright
Seminole County Sheriff Office

My heart has been saddened by your death.  Just a couple of years ago I lost a good friend in the line of duty.  He was a great guy, just like I have heard that you were.  You will be missed by people who will never have had the honor to meet you. Your family was blessed to have you and they will miss you.

Anonymous

Officer DeSalvia, thank you for going before us with the ultimate sacrific.  I'm deeply saddened to hear this tragic story.  Although I never knew you, your a brother to us all.  We lost a fellow officer in Flint this past September and I pray that it will be the last Police Funeral that I ever go to.  I thank the Lord Jesus for protecting me everyday when I go to work.  Our prayers go out to your family, agency and close friends. City of Flint Police, Michigan

Anonymous

I knew him as Sgt. DeSalvia for the short time I had him as my team leader in the Army. There were several of us who looked to him for the occasional guidance he was well respected for. His leaving this life in the support of others comes as no surprise to myself and the others who will miss him sorely. He'll live on in memory and deeds done.

officer Eastman
Federal Reserve

I WILL NEVER FORGET 02/03/2000 IN THE EARLY MORNING HOURS (SHORTLY BEFORE 0200). I HEARD THE WORST SOUND ANY OFFICER COULD HEAR A FELLOW OFFICER IN THE FIGHT FOR HIS LIFE. "SIGNAL 43 HEADQUATERS SHOTS FIRED". "I'M DOWN HEADQUATERS I'M SHOT". IN THOSE EARLY MORNING HOURS MY HEART WAS BROKEN. I HEARD YOUR PARTNER (DIAZ) DOING EVERY THING HE COULD, TO GET HELP FOR YOU, BROTHER. BUT THEIR WAS NOTHING ANYBODY ON THIS EARTH COULD DO FOR YOU. GOD HAD HIS ARMS AROUND YOU EASING YOUR PAIN. I AM SURE I SPEAK FOR EVERY OFFICER FOR ORLANDO AND FOR EVERY OFFICER IN THE WORLD WHEN I SAY GOD BLESS YOU. NOW MAY GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY. I SIT HERE TYPING THIS LETTER WITH A HEAVY HEART, KNOWING YOU ONLY GOT TO FULFILL YOUR DREAM FOR A SHORT TIME, BUT YOUR OPD FAMILY WILL KEEP YOUR IMAGE/DREAM GOING FOREVER.

fellow officer
Orlando PD

You are a loss to the entire law enforcement community. On behalf of my department I would say that our thoughts are with your family, friends and your department. You will be missed by us all. Rest my brother.

Chief Steve Mandish
Industry PA PD

To George and his family:

As I have watched and read of the events surrounding this tragedy, I am faced with recounting the tragedy that occurred in my own life when my husband was taken in the line of duty just three years ago.  My heart goes out to your family. To your wife: I know the pain and emptiness you feel, the cloud you are in at this very moment.  If it helps, please know that there are those of us who can truly identify with your pain and suffering, and we are here to help you whether through a note, a donation or just being in our thoughts.  The strength of the law enforcement community and other survivors will carry you through with great strength, along with the power of our Lord up above. Call on him to help you, His strength allows you to lean on him always.  Be proud of George, for much like my own husband, I can see that he wore his badge proudly as he protected and served his community. No one can ever take that feeling of pride away from you. George, there are those of us who will always remember and appreciate the sacrifice you made.  We will always be here for your family.  May you rest in peace with that thought.

"When my heart is overwhelmed, look to a Rock that is higher than I."  Psalm 61:2.

Christine Castetter
Surviving spouse

Your story has left a deep impression with me. Our paths parallel each other except for the geographical areas of our duty. Thank you for the 8 months of dedicated service. Your memory will be cherished as far west as Phoenix. How about watching over me now that you're in a place to do so. I pray your family finds the strength and ability to go on. I pray your children know what kind of father they had. Goodnight sir, may you rest in peace.

Patrol Officer
Phoenix Police Department

As a fellow officer, I once again sit with tears in my eyes knowing we have lost another brother. For you see, in my 10 years as a police officer I find this no easier then when my best friend was killed on duty by a drunk driver 8 years ago. My heart goes out to Ofc. DeSalivas family and co-workers. Although we have never met, we all share a special bond that only we can understand. When we lose a officer, no matter where they may work, a little bit is lost inside every cop. Ofc. DeSalvia, I know your in a better place. God Bless. You will not be forgotten.

Officer Joseph M. Herb
West Palm Beach PD

Officer DeSalvia - as I listened to the news reports of your shooting, my heart was heavy with fear.  I prayed for God to do what was best for you, Officer Diaz and your families.  I can not understand why sometimes God takes our heros from us and leaves us with the people who do not care about or respect life.  My only hope is that in taking you from your family, HE has something special planned for you.

I would like to have told you in person how much I respect you and the job you do.  I thank you for protecting the family that I have in Orlando.  I will continue to pray for your family.

God Bless you and rest in peace.  You have earned your place in heaven.

CT3 Julie Peppard
Ocala Police Department, FL

Our deepest sympathy to the Family and friends of Officer George DeSalvia. Your dedication and sacrafice was not in vain, but rather a service that ensures the freedom of our country.

"These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you shall have tribulation, but take courage, I have over come the world." (John 16:33)

Officer John D. Sainz
Tucson Police Dept.

My heart was saddened when I heard of your passing. Although I never knew you, I lost a brother when you were taken from us. You weren't alone on the street the night you were taken and you are not alone now........our hearts will always be with you. As to many others have, you made the ultimate sacrifice my brother and for that you will never be forgotten!!! May God be with you and your family.

Deputy Randy Garrett
Seminole County Sheriff's Office

3 KIDS WITHOUT A DAD.  MAY HE REST IN PEACE GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY.

COURT OFFICER
NEW YORK STATE COURTS

I had the honor of meeting officers of the Orlando Police Department during visits to Orlando in October and December. They are a great bunch of Officers. Our thoughts go out to Georges' family and buddies with the Dept. "No greater love hath one, that lays their life down for others". We will miss you dearly. From the Members, Staff, and fellow Officers of the Wilmington Police Department, Wilmington, North Carolina, you will never be forgotten.

Sgt. Jason R. Tyson
Wilmington Police Department, Wilmington NC

George,everyone of your brothers know that we lost a part of our family today. You are a true hero and we lost. I have tried many times to figure out why this would happen. I have come to the conclusion that no reason can ever justify this tragic event. You are with God now and He is with your family in this time of need. I don't think there will ever be a time that I put on my  uniform again that I will not think of you and how you made the ULTIMATE sacrafice. You will never be forgotten. God Bless you and your family. 

Anonymous

OFFICER DE SALVIA, FROM ALL I HAVE READ AND HEARD ABOUT YOU IN THE LAST 24 HOURS I FEEL CHEATED THAT I NEVER GOT TO MEET YOU IN PERSON. I KNOW THAT YOU ARE SITTING IN A SPECIAL PLACE IN HEAVEN RESERVED FOR THOSE WHO GAVE THIER OWN LIFE TO PROTECT OTHERS.

AS I READ A LOCAL NEWSPAPER ABOUT YOU HAVING LAW ENFORCEMENT IN YOUR BLOOD, IT REALLY STRUCK HOME FOR ME.

YOU SEE, MY OWN SON JUST STARTED HIS OWN CAREER IN LAW ENFORCEMENT. I CAN ASURE YOU YOUR DAD HAD TO BE SO PROUD OF YOU WHEN YOU CHOOSE TO FOLLOW IN HIS FOOTSTEPS, AND ALSO THAT A BIG PIECE OF HIS HEART DIED WHEN YOU WERE TAKEN FROM US YESTERDAY.

REST IN PEACE BROTHER KNOWING THAT YOUR FAMILY WILL BE LOVED AND CARED FOR BY THOSE FRIENDS AND CO-WORKERS YOU LEFT BEHIND.

GOD BLESS YOU GEORGE

SGT. JOHN THORNTON
LAKE CO. SHERIFF'S OFFICE FL.

Sal,

Its been almost 15 months now since the last and final time I shook your hand as you went out on the street, an hour or so before you were taken away from us. We shared a few laughs and told each other to "be safe" as you went 10-8 and I drove home. I was off that night, or I would have probably been there with you since we ran around together a lot. God, I wish I could have been there for you my friend! I know the members of my old squad all feel that way. We lost a lot that night. We lost a Warrior....and we will never forget. "Do not mistake these tears for weekness!"

You were a great young officer and a good friend. I'll remember you at the memorial next month and for the rest of my life each time I put this uniform on.

JR
Orlando PD

ITS BEEN A YEAR AND 2 MONTHS AND 26 DAYS, YES YOU KNOW THE NUMBERS ARE IMPORTANT, EVERYDAY I AM REMINDED HOW YOU LEFT US ALL, I SIT EVERYDAY IN CLASS AND STARE AT YOUR NEWSPAPER ARTICLE AND IT DOESN'T GET EASIER, I WANTED TO BE FRIENDS MUCH LONGER, I NOW HAVE THE CHANCE TO CARRY ON WHAT YOU WERE BEGINNING, I PRAY YOU LOOK DOWN ON ME TOO THE FIRST NIGHT I GO ON WATCH.

I HAVE COME TO REALIZE THAT THE PAIN AND SADNESS DOESN'T GO AWAY, HOWEVER IT DOES DRIVE YOU TO STRIVE FOR IT ALL, MY HEART AND TEARS STILL GO OUT TO YOUR WIFE AND CHILDREN. I WILL NEVER FORGET THAT NIGHT, AND I AM BLESSED BY THE OPPORTUNITY I HAD TO WATCH OVER YOUR CHILDREN THAT NIGHT, THEY WILL ALL BE A PART OF ME FOREVER, GOD BLESS YOU AND TANJA.

GOD BLESS AND THANK YOU FOR ALL THE LAUGHS AND THE FRIEND AND PERSON THAT YOU ALWAYS WILL BE

DO NOT MISTAKEN OUR TEARS FOR WEAKNESS

Anonymous

Well it has been over a year now. In fact we are preparing to go to the trial of your killer. I can say that not a day has gone by that I haven't thought of you. I remember how you walked into our lineup your first day of FTO. I remember how friendly you were and how eager you were to learn from each of us on the squad. I am sure you remember how I pawned off my off duty to you as soon as you completed your training. I remember working the downtown detail the weekend before you were taken from us. We talked about our relationships and how I hoped to be engaged soon. Especially because valentines day was near, we discussed what we would get our spouses. How sad it is for me to think you never saw valentines day that year. You gave me good advice. I was very saddened to hear the "43" radiate from my radio on my way home on that fateful night. I went right to the Hospital as I had a horrible feeling in my heart. I went to your home that night to get your wife. I will never forget how hard it was for us to knock on your door. As I sat in ICU with Cynthia as she held your hand I felt the love between you. She is doing well now and we keep in touch the best we can. I miss you.

I did get married George in fact February 3 of this year one year after your tragic death. When I was making my arrangements that was the first date available at the church, I felt awkward having a celebration that day, however I knew you would be upset if I put off my wedding. I know you were there. I miss you so much, everyday I pray that you are at peace.

Jen (Roark) Williamson

Officer Jen (Roark) Williamson
Orlando Police

George, So many days have gone by since you left us, but not one that I don't think of you. I finally met Leonard Hills at the service that was held in February in Venice. We have helped each other through this. Today is another chapter is this tragedy, jury selection begins. I know that you will watch over your family and friends and keep them safe. I pray that the Lord will wrap his arms around them and comfort them during this very difficult time as they have to once again hear the horrific details of Feb. 3, 2000. And, then next weekend, we, your family from Orlando Police Dept., will meet them in Washington, DC, along with Tanja's family, where we pay tribute to the two of you as your names are dedicated on the National Law Enforcement Memorial Wall. The 2 of you are very special, they are putting your names side by side on the same panel. That has never been done before, but then they have never had such special names to add like George Stefan DeSalvia and Tanja Brigette King. We will be there to light our candles and shed our tears as we remember the love and dedication you both had for your familes and for the Department. You will never be forgotten, we will always hold you dear to our hearts.

Dora Stremble, Communications
Orlando Police Department