Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Deputy Sheriff Grant
Yesterday I attended the candlelight vigil in Washington, DC to start the beginning of National Police Week. Your story was told;and your daughter Jennifer was introduced to sing a song at the Memorial. The song she sang was entitled "Can You Hear Me When I Talk to You". I wanted to let you know that Jennifer did an awesome job. The song was song was so moving that it brought tears to my eyes. As a member of the Police Unity Tour Chapter IV I want you to know that your memory will never be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with your family and friends during what I am sure is a tough time for them.

Police Officer James Aspatore
Chesapeake, VA

May 14, 2007

Well Dad.... I'm on way to Fresno today to sing for you and all the other officers killed in the line of duty. When I think about singing, I break down and cry just thinking about you and how empty my life is without you in it. But I know you will be there with me.... I'm flying to Washington D.C. in 2 weeks to sing at the National Police Memorial. I have wanted to do this for 2 years now and now I have my chance. During the candlelight vigil, it will take everything I have to keep it together....but it's all for you Dad! I miss you so much... Every song I sing Dad, I sing for you! I love you! Pooher

Jennifer Grant
Daughter of Dep. Grant

April 30, 2007

Dave-
Easter Sunday-another without you-I didn't even go to the family BBQ. Something in the air or the smells this time of year reminds me that May is approaching-it feels like a vice tightening around me-Jen feels it too. We would rather sleep through these months. On a good note I guess-Jen is singing in DC at the candlelight vigil. She is proud to do it for you-but to me it is a heart-wrenching reminder of what happened to you. These Police memorials rip my heart out.
I'm trying,but it's so hard
I Love You
Rich

April 8, 2007

Hi Richie,
Thank you for your reflection on my son's page. I read through some of your husband's page, and I can see that you have some really special children and extended family. I'm sorry for your loss and for your children having to grow up without him.

Yes, the loss of my son is a heaviness in my heart that I will carry as long as I live. My husband and our four daughters will be in Sacramento in May for the memorial. None of us are able to go to DC, although we will be there in spirit. My daughter-in-law will be there and so will Brent's captain, Jim Leonard, who I noticed put a reflection on David's page.

I didn't know about this site until my son died, but now I visit every day. It brings both tears and comfort. Each night before I go to bed I go to my son's page and say goodnight to him. It's tragic that so many outstanding people meet untimely ends in law enforcement.

Again, thank you for your note and for sharing in our grief. It's still pretty raw for all of us.

Caroline Clearman
Mother of CHP Officer Brent W. Clearman EOW 8-6-06

Caroline Clearman
Mother of a fallen officer

April 7, 2007

ALL I CAN SAY IS WOW.TO SEE ALL THE PEOPLES LIVES THAT MY UNCLE HAS TOUCHED.EVERYTHING HE HAS DONE AND HOW MANY PEOPLE STILL LOOK UP TO HIM 2 DAY. I JUST STARED THE EXPLORER PROGRAM HERE IN FRESNO AND ITS FREAKIN SWEET. JUST BEIN THER GETS MY HEART PUMPIN.KNOWIN THAT I CAN THROW SOME FOOL TO THE GROUND AND CRACK HAND CUFFS ON HIM IS.....INCREDIBLE.I NOW SEE WHY HE LOVED HIS JOB SO MUCH.AND IM RIGHT HERE FOLLOWING IN HIS FOOTSTEPS,DOING THE EXPLORER PROGRAM JUST AS HE DID.OH I LOVE IT SO MUCH. IM VERY PROUD TO HAVE AN UNCLE LIKE HIM AND IM ALSO VERY PROUD TO SAY, I TO AM A GRANT BOY AND IVE GOT THAT BLOOD RUNNIN THROUGH MY VEINS TO PROVE IT.AUNT RICHIE,RORY,JUSTIN,JEN AND WHIT,REMEMBER JEFF AND I ARE ALWAYS THINKIN OF YOU GUYS AND WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH.

MR. CODY J. GRANT
NEPHEW. AND FRESNO CO. EXPLORER

March 27, 2007

Hi Richie,
Frank & I were just talking about Dave and how much we miss him and still sometimes forget that he is not with us today. On this same day we saw you at the book store......he is watchng over all of us. The deptartment has not forgotten him.
Sheila

Sheila DeRocher

March 16, 2007

Jennifer Patricia-aka-Jennifer Rose's birthday is today. I was thinking of my Dad's comment "She looks like a G*D D**n Hawaiian" on the day she was born-so true-so much a Fernandes. So your Poozer-Woozer curls & all turns 25.

March 4, 2007

Hello you guys do not know me and that is ok, i am going to try and make this really short, i have heard A LOT about this man and all i have to say is thank you... i am 16 and i have read everything about him and because of him i am thinking about having a career as being a police officer. You guys are really an awesome family...

February 20, 2007

Everyday i wear the pin with your pic on it. Today it was on my hat. I was sitting in spanish seventh period and i was just staring at the pin thinking about you,dad,g-ma,and g-pa.as i was sitting there the girl asked me if i was ok. when i said yes she asked why there was a tear running down my cheek. moments later i just couldnt control it and the tears just started flowing. my teacher let me go outside and i was just sitting there crying. i cant wait until the day i can see you all in heaven. but until that time please watch over everyone and keep us safe

Soon 2 B Officer Cody Grant
Nephew

February 5, 2007

Right now im a junior in high school.....Only a few years away from being in the real world. After thinking for the last sixteen years i think that im kinda leaning towards being a highway patrol.....Unless Tuolumne Sheriff wants to hire me. I would go with them in a heartbeat. Any ways so only a little while longer and i will be out on the streets just like you. Jeff and I really miss you and we hope that you,dad and pops are all watching over us and keeping us safe.Love you guys:

Mr. Cody Grant
Nephew...Future Officer

January 12, 2007

As one year blends into another- 31 months have passed without you---
I miss you--
Rich

January 1, 2007

We made sugar cookies for Santa tonight with Aliana. You always loved Christmas with the kids. Remember the George Strait/John Denver music? We continue on the same, the tree, the lights, the presents, but it will never be the same without you- we miss you & Love you.
Merry Christmas Sweetheart
Rich

December 25, 2006

Dear Rich ~

Thank you for your reflection on my husband's site. If you'd like, you can get my email through the ODMP. Please feel free to write to me. I have found it so helpful to lean on other widows - they are the only people who can truly understand what we are going through. None of us asked to be in this situation - this is what was given to us and we are all doing the best we can. We were placed on this path and our only option is to travel it.

I'm sure facing yet another holiday without your wonderful husband is difficult, but I do wish you and your family a warm and blessed Christmas. And may the New Year bring you hope, renewed faith and new beginnings.

Take care, and I hope to hear from you.
Warmly ~
Carin E. Sollman
wife of Officer Jesse E. Sollman, EOW 3/25/05

December 20, 2006

Remembering this day 20 years ago when Whitney was born--or Wyatt as you called her--it's those memories that are so fresh in my mind, like they were yesterday-wish you were here.
I Love You
Rich

December 11, 2006

Happy Thanksgiving Dad. We all made your famous Portuguese Dressing last night... we did our best, so I'm hoping it comes out just as good as when you made it with us. Today is your favorite holiday and I miss you so much. But I am thankful for the 22 years I spent with you. Such a big man, such an influence in everything I do. I love you Dad and I miss you! Love, Pooher

Jennifer P. Grant
Daughter of Dep. Grant

November 23, 2006

I thought of you the entire time the kids and I were making your portuguese dressing. I know the kids will continue the tradition for years to come. It was always such a special night for us-but like everything else-I do it alone, remembering us-
I Love You
Rich

November 23, 2006

I know you are watching, but I still wish you could of been here today to stand with me as Justin flew into Columbia. He buzzed the house 1st. Jen, Janelle and I were outside watching. It was great,what a great beginning.So much of Justin's drive comes from your influence, you were a good Dad, it shows in all the kids.
I Love You
Rich

November 2, 2006

Well Justin did it ! He passed his 1st checkride and now has his private pilot helicopter license. I know you have been along side him every step of the way. Thanks for that-I Love You, Rich

October 16, 2006

It has been over 2 years since your tour of duty ended and you have not been forgotten as true heroes never die. Your loved ones will keep your memory alive as will members of the Blue Family. There are no magic words of comfort I can offer except that all they can do is take one day at a time and keep your memory alive by talking about you to anyone who will listen and also contacting friends that you worked with and have them tell stories that they may not have heard before. Keep watch over your loved ones as I know their hearts still shed tears from the pain of losing you. Also, keep watch over those still on patrol watching over the Thin Blue Line. I'll end with a short poem that was sent to me:

Poem by Richard Fife:

No person is ever truly alone.
Those who live no more,
Whom we loved,
Echo still within our thoughts,
Our words, our hearts.
And what they did,
And who they were,
Becomes a part of all that we are,
Forever.

Bob Gordon, father of fallen Chicago Officer
Michael P. Gordon, EOW: 8/8/04

Bob Gordon, Gold Star Father

September 21, 2006

Dad-
I just wanted to write to you and tell you I love you. I know you are watching down on me.... I have the best angel. I know that you have been with me over the last few days as I walked away from certain things in my life. I know you are proud of me.... I just wish I could hear it. I made you a promise that day that I said my last goodbye, that I would always be strong and make you proud.... I started to lose sight of that... But I promise Dad, I'm back on track and will never lose sight of my dreams again. I love you Dad. Pooher

Jennifer Grant
Daughter of Dep. Grant

September 18, 2006

Richie,
Thank you for taking the time to share such kind thoughts with me on my husband's site which you found through Lt. Dudley's. Strange how we all think the same keeping up on families & tragedies this way since experiencing & living our own. I am very humbled & glad you wrote me & there IS some comfort in knowing that someone out there knows how you feel, although I am sorry for your loss. I too have read your husband's site....what a wonderful man, police officer, father...and yes, husband. It shows each time you write. I admire your family & the strength you all show just by writing your grief...hoping somehow like we do, that your loved one gets the message.
For me, it's the only time I feel I am talking to Tom...& he hears me. And yes Richie...WE DO know each other's feelings. Reading your words made me realize & back track to find it...that "I" had written them....scary but I didn't completely recall doing so. I even understand (but still fear) the response - & your reaction to it of someone actually inquiring that you 'still' miss Dave.(?!) Although I wouldn't wish this on anyone....you are right....they will never understand unless they live it. I had no idea! No one could have told me the pain I would feel & made it come close to the Grand Canyon size hole left in my chest. We were blessed 'tho Richie...some people never have the love we know their entire life. I wouldn't give it up if given the chance to go back & re-live my life w/o him...never knowing that love. I'd do it all over again because He's worth it & I know from your thoughts to me that you feel the same. The ONLY thing that truly did scare me..(& still does)..that it doesn't get any easier..like you, I never plan to get over it...Never Forgotten has been a band on my wrist since the day he passed away & I will honor his memory until the day I join him in Heaven where I know all of our Spouses are waiting for us.
Tom & I had two children (son Josh & daughter Jessica), & I have 3 grown step-children. Like many in your family, my son Josh, who is 18 & just graduated High School....entered College 8/2006 & plans to follow in his father's footsteps & become a Police Officer.
My daughter is only 14...was the light of her Daddy's eye, & she too talks of entering Law Enforcement upon graduating. (We'll see)....Like your children, they miss their Dad so much...We as parents want to put our arms around them & tell them 'It's O.K.' We are supposed to make our children feel better....but they didn't figure something so devastating to all in the equation when expecting the parents to make it better. I expect it of myself but don't even know where to start...I can't help myself so how do I help the now 2 (only) most important people in my life? I have already been asked (several times) if my son entering Law Enforcement scares me....Richie, it's the only thing I have peace about. It's a proud, honorable profession & I know his father would be ecstatic were he here watching our son do something that he spent 35 years of his life doing.....he loved it.
Sorry to you Richie..I could go on as seems like I already know you...but wish I'd had the pleasure of doing so 'before' our hearts were broken. I'm proud to stand among such great women & families such as yourself...proud to be (none of us by choice) a member of C.O.P.S. - but still don't call or consider myself a 'survivor'. I haven't 'survived' s**t....I'm here because my kids need me & because I would expect it of Tom were the tables turned.
Richie, I'll close with an opportunity for us to stay in touch if you like. Send coorespondence if you wish to my husband's Police Department & enclose your Dept's address or whatever address you choose, & I'll respond thus giving you my home mailing address; etc. They will get it to me:

Jo'Nee Cochran - Family of Tom Cochran
% Lawrenceburg Police Department
349 Walnut Street
Lawrenceburg, IN 47025
PH# 812/537-2284

Regardless Richie...thank you for reaching out in this manner as I also know how much 'energy' it takes to do simple tasks these days..something I don't have much of & the reason it took me so long to respond. I know you have other children but mostly noted reflections left by Jennifer & Justin...(as you saw, my daughter Jess writes often...her outlet...but Josh deals in other ways & even though I wish he was, he's not comfortable writing his feelings & has not done so since shortly after my husbands accident)....Please encourage them to keep writing. It is beautiful, heartfelt & somehow, I do believe Dave gets the message. AND....He is NOT FORGOTTEN & never will be. That is now my life's goal is to honor my husband's memory & ensure that the sacrifice he made for a community he loved....IS ALSO NOT FORGOTTON. I am sorry for what you all are going through with the 'other' driver. Instead of playing the 'martyr' or 'victim'...they should be down on their knees thanking God, Dave, & your family for the Ultimate Sacrifice as Dave TRULY IS A HERO Richie....he took the "high road" - doing what he was trained to do: protect the lives of others.....things might have been different had he not averted the accident & slammed (or t-boned) the driver who stopped in the middle of the intersection....That is my definition of a HERO & you all hold your heads high as now, every time 'that person' or anyone else in your area or just passing through...will always remember Deputy Dave Grant of the Tuolumne Co. Sheriff's Dept. who paid the ultimate sacrifice.....& he didn't have to....They'll be on 'His Road". What an honor & I don't know of that in my area but will absolutely now check....I owe it to him. Anyone who says different should be (& someday I'm sure will be) ashamed....I should practice as I am preaching because I don't take my own advice & have not yet even asked about the suicidal subject who turned on the officer's at the scene thus the reason my husband is no longer here.....I only know that he too is still walking this earth, sitting down for family dinners; etc. oblivious to the pain he caused. (Just kidding of course) but had to wonder if perhaps the two (your driver & my 'suicidal' subject) are related as one thing for sure, stupidity as defined in my dictionary probably has their names printed by it. Take care Richie....hope to hear from you soon. You will be in my thoughts & prayers.
Sincerely,
Jo'Nee Cochran
Spouse

Jo'Nee Cochran, Spouse
Det/Sgt Tom Cochran LPD, IN EOW: 1-26-05

September 15, 2006

Happy Birthday Sweetheart- The memories of the 25 birthdays I spent with you will always remain in my heart.
I Love you and Miss you, Rich

September 6, 2006

I met up with a friend of ours, actually a cousin of yours by marriage. Here was this grown man almost in tears, said he was erasing the phones numbers on the board in his shop and your number was there. He couldn't erase it, your number was the only one he left on the board. I then ran into one of the Posse wives and was relaying the story to her as I thought it was a touching story. When I talked about how much we missed you, she said "Still?" I stood there frozen, staring at her-- she just doesn't get it. "Still" remains forever- you just learn to live with it as there are no other choices. I look forward to being with you again when my days on earth are over, I know you will be waiting for me- I Love you, Rich

August 18, 2006

So I pretty much just finished cleaning up the yard with mom. We tore down part of the shed everything looks a lot better. I should start flight school the day before your birthday so I'm finally headed in that direction. We only talked about it since '96. Anyways I couldn't help but think of how much fun we would have had cleaning up the yard together. I'm just joking but being able to spend anytime with you would be worth my last breath. Love you dad see you later.

Justin Grant
Son

August 17, 2006

I was just reading the reflections left on my Daddy's page just after he died, and saw that your family had written to us. I didn't even know about this site then, but how well I do now! Isn't it something how a loss can bring people together from across the nation! I've never been to California, but I know there are wonderful people there who love their dads as much as I love mine! Know that I am thinking of you all today.
Thank you, Deputy Grant, for your sacrifice. Rest in peace.

Lori Johnson Rowley, wife of NC LEO
Daughter of Sgt. James Johnson, EOW 11/11/04

August 16, 2006