Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Officer Thomas J. Giunta

Fall River Police Department, Massachusetts

End of Watch Wednesday, August 24, 1994

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Reflections for Officer Thomas J. Giunta

Officer Guinta, it has been 29 years since you were taken from us. New England law enforcement has continued to thrive, learn and become safer due to the traditions and sacrifices you, your family, and many others have made for us. Thank you for your military and law enforcement service.

Chief (Ret) Steven Marshall
Georges Mills, NH

August 24, 2023

Rest in peace always and know that your service and sacrifice will never, ever be forgotten by your law enforcement brethren.

Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)

August 24, 2020

Rest in peace Officer Giunta.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 10, 2019

Officer Giunta,
On today, the 25th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just for your Community but for our Country as well when you served with the USCG during the Vietnam War. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

Semper Paratus!

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol
El Paso Station

August 24, 2019

August 24th is upon us, a very sad day. I remember it clearly. I couldn't believe my friend was gone. We had just talked at the park, hugged and parted ways. In the blink of an eye you were murdered. I'm grateful for memories. You are never forgotten, you are missed. Hope you liked the flowers I placed st your grave on Memorial Day. R.I.P. my friend.

Geri Banville
Friend

August 21, 2018

Officer Thomas Giunta was someone I looked up too while growing up. He was full of life, a wonderful man and always had a positive outlook on life. In his honor my older brother and I joined a Sheriff's office to give something back to the community. Uncle Tommy is forever missed at the table, but his spirit is still with us all.

Lt. Joseph R. Bibbo
Middlesex Sheriff's Office (Retired)

December 9, 2016

I was in the Coast Guard with Tom we went to Vietnam together on the same ship. He was a GREAT man and a good friend. I was a Police Officer also. I had not seen or heard from Tom for many years after we got home from Vietnam. I met Tom at a Safety Officers meeting two months before he died.

Joseph Veno
Reading Police Dept. (Retired)

December 6, 2015

Very sad and terrible day. Tommy was a good teacher for us young bucks. Always had a smile and a good piece of advice. I admired Tommy and learned a lot from him.

Chief Stephen P. Medeiros (ret.)
Piermont, NH Police Department/Ptmn Fall River Police Department

August 24, 2015

I had the misfortune to have custody of his murderer for years and truthfully i can't say that he was doing hard time,as he should have been

sgt steven costa
mass doc

August 24, 2015

To fully appreciate the heroes of the present, we must recognize our heroes of the past. I am privileged to pay tribute to you. Your heroism and service is honored today, the 19th anniversary year of your death. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer who was murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered.

I pray for solace for all those that love and remember you for I know that both the pain and pride are forever. Your family is in my heart's embrace. Rest In Peace.

Phyllis Loya
Mom of fallen California Officer Larry Lasater, Pittsburg PD, eow 4/24/05

April 12, 2013

hey dad tried to leave u a message here it goes again I still miss u sooo much. You have 2 beautiful grand daughters I am sure you know this. Till we meet again you are truly my hero....xo

tina giunta
Daughter

February 8, 2013

Tommy's forever support for his family,friends,and the city of Fall River. I will remember him for always being there for advice,support,and his gentle caring ways. He will be forever in my heart.

Joyce & Norm Gauthier
friends......the Gauthier family

February 8, 2013

RIP Sir, A true american Hero

James Kotke
Civilian / Former Officer
WSF Park Police (Wi.)

July 16, 2012

Hey uncle tommy I miss u so much I remember me as kid as I stand on the coner withe bage u gave me with a black strip a cross it and as you passed with all your brothers I rased my hand to my brow to salute u as you go by me I will never forget you and to the men and woman that where there that day thank you for being there for him I know he really thanks you. .......tommy #20 RIP

Joshua sikora

December 13, 2011

On the 14th anniversary of Officer Giunta's death, we honored his service in our patrol briefing by reading his entry from ODMP. Each day, we honor one fallen officer on the anniversary of their death so as to keep them in our thoughts, and also to remind us of the dangers inherent in our job. Officer Giunta is not forgotten.

Agent Zach Perron
Palo Alto (CA) Police Department

August 24, 2008

I believe there are different levels of heaven. Some are closer to God and some are not for those who have to learn from their mistakes on earth. I believe that Officer Giunta is at one of the highest levels possible and very close to God. He died attempting to do a nice thing for the community. Still remembered to this day Officer Giunta.

Marissa Barros

March 8, 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

November 7, 2007

Patrolman Giunta,
On today, the 13th anniversary of your murder, I would like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Fall River. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
Anonymous

Anonymous

August 24, 2007

The 13th anniversary of your tragic death is approaching. Thank you for your bravery and sacrifice. You will NEVER be forgotten and will FOREVER be a hero. I'm sure you are "walking a beat on the Golden Street" in Heaven. God Bless your family.

DET SGT, Retired
AR

July 16, 2007

Judgment Day for a Police Officer

.....Author Unknown

The policeman stood and faced his God,
Which must always come to pass.
He hoped his shoes were shining.
Just as brightly as his brass.

"Step forward now, Policeman.
How shall I deal with you?
Have you always turned the other cheek?
To my Church have you been true?"

The policeman squared his shoulders and said,
"No, Lord I guess I ain't,
Because those of us who carry badges
Can't always be a Saint.

I've had to work most Sundays,
And at times my work was rough,
and sometimes I've been violent,
Because the streets are awfully tough.

But I never took a penny,
That wasn't mine to keep,
I worked a lot of overtime
When the bills just got too steep.

And I never passed a cry for help,
Though at times I shook with fear.
And sometimes, God forgive me,
I've wept unmanly tears.

I know I don't deserve a place
among the people here.
They never wanted me around
Except to calm their fear.

If you've a place for me here, Lord
It needn't be so grand.
I never expected or had too much,
But if you don't, I'll understand."

There was silence all around the Throne
Where the Saints had often trod.
As the policeman waited quietly,
For the judgment of his God.

"Step forward now, policeman,
You've borne your burdens well.
Come walk a beat on Heaven's streets,
You've done your time in Hell."
-----------------------------------------------------------
Pretty much every week, I pray at your grave. Last Summer, I left some silk flowers and they are still there. I still remember the day you passed. I only knew one Fall River Police Officer then, and I hoped it wasn't you. Sadly, it was. You cared enough to help my family, when others turned away. I guess God needed your help in Heaven just the way that you helped so many here on Earth.
Rest in Peace, Tommy. I will never forget your caring soul.

Sandee

February 8, 2007

Today marks the anniversary of your murder. I know God is keeping watch on your family, at home and at work, and I'm sure you are right there beside him.

God Bless, Brother.

Ptl. Jim Leahy, Jr.
Harvard University Police Dept.

August 24, 2006

I recall the day of your funeral. I recall seeing groups of cops huddled under every roof that could be found due to how hard it was raining. It seemed as though such a torrential downpour was a bit appropriate as we said good-bye. Every rain drop a tear for every cop who died in the line of duty and most, on that day, for you.

God Bless and Rest in Peace.

Ptl. Jim Leahy, Jr.
Harvard University Police Dept.

March 20, 2006

I remember standing in the pouring rain during Officer Giunta's funeral, watching the hundreds of officers and Troopers lining up to pay their respects.

You are gone but not forgotten, Officer. Rest in peace, always.

Volunteer
American Red Cross - Boston

February 17, 2006

I attended Officer Giunta's funderal and was moved by the show of support his family and friends received.

RIP Officer Giunta

Police Officer
Massachusetts

December 1, 2005

In 1974 I became a Constable for the Fall River Police. I worked alot on Rhode Island Ave. where a young patrolman, Tommy, worked. I came to California in 1977 to continue my career. I was deeply saddened when I learned of Tommy's passing. I remember him as a fine police officer and dedicated family man. It was a pleasure to know and work with him and his family is in our thoughts and prayers.

Deputy Sheriff
Alameda County. California

December 24, 2003

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