Fallen Heros

Late last night the Oakland Police Department and several families and friends suffered a tragic loss.  While making a routine traffic stop, Officer John Hege and Sgt. Mark Dunakin where fatally wounded by a wanted fugitive, Lovelle Mixon.  Later, during the manhunt, Mixon shot and killed two more officers, Sgt. Ervin Romans and Sgt. Daniel Sakai.  The fugitive was rightfully killed in the firefight with SWAT and other police agencies.

As a police officer, I certainly don’t consider myself a hero and I know the above listed officers didn’t either.  However, when an officer makes the ultimate sacrifice to protect the community that he or she is sworn to protect, the title of Hero is rightfully bestowed.

To all of the mothers, fathers, spouses, brothers, sisters, sons and daughters who lost their hero, may you find a small sense of peace in knowing that your loved ones died while trying to make our world a better place.   Police officers know they can’t change the world but, because of their hard work, dedication and selfless acts, our communities are much better off because of them.  Police officers accept, with knowledge that death or serious bodily injury may result, the responsibility of protecting their communities.  At no time and for no reason should an officer be forced to make the ultimate sacrifice while doing his or her job. But, routinely they do and others are spared as a result of their actions.

The officers who died in Oakland gave their lives for others.  They are true Heros and will be sadly missed by everyone who’s lives they touched.  May their spirits remain with each of you while they continue their calling to serve and protect.

“A Hero Is”

One Who Never Hesitates To Tackle The Most Difficult Problems..

One Who Is Always By Your Side..

One Who Knows Right From Wrong..

One Who Acts With Pride..

A Hero Touches Every One Of Us,

Whether It Be Word Or Deed..

Always Tending To Those Who Find Themselves In Need..

When A Hero Leaves This Earth, Yes, It’s Sad, But True..

All Too Many Times, The Hero Is Dressed In Blue.

Written by:

Eric DeRenzis

http://www.policepoems.com/AHeroIs.htm