Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Trooper Werner Foerster

New Jersey State Police, New Jersey

End of Watch Wednesday, May 2, 1973

Leave a Reflection

Reflections for Trooper Werner Foerster

Rest in peace my Brother.

Kevin T Ryan
NJ

May 2, 2008

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

December 12, 2007

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

December 12, 2007

God Speed, Brother.

P.O.K.Murphy
Union PD, NJ

June 11, 2007

To the family, friends and colleagues of Trooper Foerster, please know that a day does not go by where this brave Trooper is not thought of for his bravery and sacrifice. Trooper Foerster is part of God's elite police force watching over his law enforcement brethren from above and one day we will meet in a better place.

Cpl/1 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police

May 2, 2007

On the anniversary of your sacrifice 34 years ago we remember you. god speed.

anonymous

May 2, 2007

We offer our heartfelt sympathy to the family, friends and colleagues of Trooper Foerster and we honor his distinguished service to the cause of justice and peace. Sadly, our nation has lost one of its finest citizens, a community has lost a friend and protector, and a family has lost an example of character and courage who they will love and respect forever. Today, because of the sacrifice Trooper Foerster has made, the house of freedom is stronger, sturdier, and more secure.

To the family and friends of Trooper Foerster, I would like you to know that a lot of people pray for you, and my hope is that their prayers will give you the strength necessary to move on. Just as you were always with him when he walked the beat or patrolled the streets, know that he will always be with you - wherever you may be. In the days to follow, may you be strengthened by the fact that Trooper Foerster is a man distinguished by exceptional courage and will always be admired for his brave deeds and noble qualities. You, your family and your sacrifice will never be forgotten.

SA Thomas Doyle
FBI New York City

March 9, 2007

TROOPER FOERSTER,
I HAVE SEEN OVER THE YEARS IN MY TRAVELS ON RT 18 THAT THE OVERPASS THAT PASSES OVER THE TURNPIKE WHERE YOU GAVE YOUR LIFE FOR US, WAS NAMED THE WERNER FOERSTER OVERPASS IN YOUR HONOR. YESTERDAY, I EMAILED THE ODMP NOTIFYING THEM OF THIS HONOR BESTOWED ON YOU. TODAY, THEY SO GRACIOUSLY UPDATED YOUR PROFILE NOTING THAT HONOR.
I SENT THIS TO THEM SO EVERYONE WHO READS THIS PROFILE KNOWS THE SPOT NAMED FOR YOU, AND IF THEY HAVE OCCASION TO PASS THIS SPOT, THEY WILL SAY A PRAYER FOR YOUR FAMILY, AND ALL OF OUR POLICE OFFICERS WHO RISK THEIR LIVES DAILY TO KEEP US SAFE.

MAY YOU REST IN PEACE TROOP. YOUR KILLER WILL GET HERS. SHE MAY NOT BE JUDGED IN OUR EARTHLY COURTS, BUT SHE CANNOT ESCAPE THE ULTIMATE JUDGEMENT. I PRAY THAT WE WILL GET HER OUT OF CUBA ONE DAY, AND HAVE HER BROUGHT TO JUSTICE IN NJ SUPERIOR COURT.

TROOPER FOERSTER, NEVER FORGOTTEN.

JIM SWEENEY CIVILIAN NEW JERSEY
A FRIEND TO ALL PEACE OFFICERS

March 2, 2007

God bless you Trooper Foerster. You are in heaven now and that --------- is hiding in Cuba, just waiting to meet the Devil.

DFC. Daniel O'Donnell
Orange County Sheriff's Office (FL)

January 6, 2007

REST IN PEACE SIR! YOUR SACRIFICE WILL NOT BE FORGOTTEN!

TROOPER
NJSP - TROOP "B"

December 20, 2006

May you rest in peace, Sir! You are not forgotten.

Police Officer

December 5, 2006

While at the ending months of my police academy, I attended officer Werner Foerster funeral in New Jersey. My badge # was 2633 and Werners was 2608. I later made Sergeant, #582 and specialized in drunk driver enforcement and was assigned to motorcycle for many years with Highway Patrol. I also spent a year in Washington DC on an assignment by the Governors traffic safety committee. I believe I'm a distant cousin of Werners, although I did not know him. My branch of the Foerster family arrived at Ellis Island in March of 1907 and my grandfather, Herman Foerster opened a bakery with his brother Otto Foerster. Otto later owned a large bakery in BergenField New Jersey. I often think of Werner and how he died at the hands of an animal who is still free. I also wonder about his family and how they managed without him. God rest brother, we still think of you!

Sergeant Gary Foerster
Suffolk County Police 1973 - 2000

November 5, 2006

I was only 6 years old when your watch ended and growing up in the motorcity. I did not get my wish to be a police officer until 2 years ago. There is not a prouder profession that I know of. Rest in peace brother and watch over us as we do our best. See you on the other side.

Ofc Thomas Caddell
Metropolitan Pol;ice Dept D.C.

September 20, 2006

Rest in Peace knowing that no person can avoid The Lord's justice.

May 2, 2006

On the wings of an angel you got my previous post........and today I received a posting from Donna; Eric's wife. I told you it's been ages since I've seen Eric or Rosel, and somehow, you heard my heart and are bringing us together again. You're still watching over me like you did so many years ago (smiling). On the wings of an angel, I send my gratitude.......and as always......my love. Deine Kleine Petra

Petra von Ansbach

March 9, 2006

I was 12 years old, and sound asleep that night, until the roar of the engines (that drowned out the sirens)from police car after police car flashed by my house on route 18. I knew something bad had happened, and I was scared--until a search party of four officers came door to door and checked every building in my apartment complex for the fugitives. I knew then just how important police officers are, special individuals, like the trooper who lived around the corner and the city cop down the block--all part of what is right in this world. I had to become part of that fraternity. Werner is watching over us. God's Blessings always to his friends and family.

Capt. Steve Mislyan
Longboat Key Police Dept.

March 3, 2006

Werner Foerster
Although it's been over 30 years since you've been gone, you're not forgotten. I still have vivid memories of you from childhood and teen years and remember you as though it's been yesterday. Going to Niagra Falls with you, learning the twist from you, you teaching me to skateboard and calling out encouraging words when I attempted my first run down the drive, visiting you and Rosel at your apartment after you left home and got married......are all wonderful memories. I thought the saddest of days must have been when the letter arrived that you were killed, but I was wrong. The last Good-bye at the funeral home was the saddest. I knew I would never see you again, never hear your voice, never have you hug me again. When we went to have you laid in the ground, I thought my heart would break. The ache inside of me hurt like nothing I've experienced before. They say time heals all wounds, but it doesn't take away the pain of missing you. It's been over 30 years and I still miss you.......still love you.........and still wish I could talk with you. But all I can do is remember you. I don't see Eric anymore, but I did see him graduate high school and he was a fine young man. He was tall and well built and as handsome as you are. I wish you had the opportunity to see him grow up. Rosel missed you too.......ALOT. She had your picture and memorial flag displayed on the mantle for years and years after you were gone. I remember visiting you at the apartment in Edison and her sitting on your lap with her arms around you and I knew she loved you........which made me less sad that you had to move out when you got married. (Smiling). You're life never should have been cut short at such a young age. The sacrifice you made as a law enforcement officer is not forgotten. Werner........you'll never be forgotten by me. My boys know all about you.....they heard the stories for years and they talk as though they've personally met you. It's sad that they never got to meet their Onkel Werner in person. I had three sons, and guess what? They have all gone into law with two in Law enforcement......a real tribute to your influence on them.....they've been told the stories. And Ryan, my second son, was given his middle name after your son. You may have left us over 30 years ago, but your memory lives on and your stories have influenced your nephews. I'm sending this to you on the wings of an angel......and know that I love you and will forever miss you. Deine Kleine Petra

Posted by Petra von Ansbach (2006-01-18 18:02:01)

Petra von Ansbach, RN

February 5, 2006

THERE IS NOT A DAY THAT GOES BY THAT A DON'T HAVE THE IMAGE OF THIS ANIMAL NOT ONLY IN MIND BY ALSO ON MY MY VEHICLES DASHBOARD. REST IN PEACE TROOPER. YOUR WATCH HAS ENDED. I PROMISE YOU SHE WILL BE BROUGH TO JUSTICE.

FORMER P.O. WALTER M.ZULINSKI
HUDSON COUNTY POLICE DEPARTMENT

December 30, 2005

I remember this like it was yesterday...a million bucks for this piece of trash might do it...the Thin Blue Line is hoping it will..RIP Brother

Sgt. (Ret)
Camden County Major Crimes

December 20, 2005

The day is finally here when you will be honored by the state of New Jersey for your sacrifice. After 30 years, the stretch of road over the NJ Turpike where you were brutally murdered will be dedicated and named after you.

We still patiently wait until the day when all of those responsible for your death see justice. Until that day, you are in the thoughts and prayers of everyone in New Jersey and the rest of the country.

April 28, 2005

DAY IS DONE,
GONE THE SUN,
FROM THE HILLS, FROM THE LAKE, FROM THE SKIES.
ALL IS WELL, SAFELY REST,
GOD IS NIGH.

GO TO SLEEP, PEACEFUL SLEEP,
MAY THE SOLDIER OR SAILOR, GOD KEEP.
ON THE LAND OR THE DEEP,
SAFE IN SLEEP.

LOVE, GOOD NIGHT,
MUST THOU GO,
WHEN THE DAY, AND THE NIGHT NEED THEE SO?
ALL IS WELL. SPEEDETH ALL
TO THEIR REST.

FADES THE LIGHT;
AND AFAR
GOETH DAY, AND THE STARS SHINETH BRIGHT,
FARE THEE WELL; DAY IS GONE,
NIGHT IS ON.

THANKS AND PRAISE,
FOR OUR DAYS,
'NEATH THE SUN, 'NEATH THE STARS, 'NEATH THE SKY,
AS WE GO, THIS WE KNOW,
GOD IS NIGH.

A Brother In Blue

Detective Troy S. Pilivi
Box Elder Narcotics Strike Force (Utah)

October 20, 2004

you are still loved and missed by those who knew you. you and the sacrifice you made will never be forgotten.

anonymous

July 2, 2004

May you Rest in Peace

June 7, 2004

You will never be forgotten!

Anonymous

December 27, 2003

Rest in peace brother.......May those brutal criminals responsible for these murders of the "best of the best" be brought to justice and damned to hell!

Trooper
Pennsylvania State Police

Want even more control of your Reflection? Create a free ODMP account now for these benefits:

  • Quick access to your heroes
  • Reflections published quicker
  • Save a Reflection signature
  • View, edit or delete any Reflection you've left in the past

Create an account for more options, or use this form to leave a Reflection now.