Can't believe it's been 2 years

Ducatimom

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Jun 10, 2014
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6 yr old Sun Conure (Ducati)
I just want to start off by saying this is not about a beloved pet, but rather about a good man and friend of mine.

Two years ago today Josh responded to a call (he was a police officer in my hometown) to deliver a warrant. What happened after that will be forever burned in my head. The man opened fire and shot Josh through the door. For whatever reason Josh was not wearing his vest that day. His wife (another good friend of mine. We all went to high school together), was working at the ER when this happened and Josh was rushed to the hospital for his bullet wounds. Unfortunately there was nothing they could do and he passed. Luckily they were able to say one final goodbye before that happened. The man who shot Josh ended up shooting himself and passed away shortly after he was detained.

I'm sorry. I know it's a gruesome story but it's still hard to think about 2 years later. It is very comforting to have somewhere to say all of this. The amount that my little hometown has done in his memory is astounding. Jill got so much in donations that she set up a scholarship fund for graduating seniors in the surrounding area who are wanting to go into law enforcement. Everybody who used to work with him (my mother included) set up an organization that also gives out scholarships as well as organize events dedicated to Josh. Today there is a banquet and they do a trek around this time where you can walk, run, bike, etc. from the courthouse to his burial site. I hope to attend that next year. My father while on the city council built a park on an unused patch of land dedicated to Josh, with a flag and a plaque telling Josh's story.

So with that I have a request. If you work in law enforcement, please please please wear your vest. Even if you're just going to answer a noise complaint. Where the bullets hit Josh it may not have saved his life but it would've at least increased his chances.

Thank you for reading my story. Again sorry if it was a little gruesome, but it feels good just getting it out there.
 

Minimaker

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Jul 29, 2014
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I'm so sorry for your loss :( I had a best friend die several years back right after she had her first child-that sort of very personal loss you just never get over no matter how many years go by. So in a way I know how you feel-hugs of consolation to you. Just keep him in your heart forever and you'll always have him wherever you go.
 

Betrisher

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Jun 3, 2013
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Thank you for sharing Josh's story! Law enforcement officers are very brave men and face things that no one should have to face. I'm glad to hear this good man's sacrifice hasn't been in vain and that his name and memory have been so honored in your town. I hope his family is coming to terms with his loss and facing life without him. May he rest in peace.
 

Allee

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Oct 27, 2013
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Meagan, I am deeply sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing this story. It's always heartbreaking to lose someone to a senseless crime, but extremely bitter when the person makes the ultimate sacrifice in service to others. I'm glad Jill has the support of the community to help her cope with such a devastating loss. The park, events and scholarships are a beautiful tribute to Josh's memory. My thoughts are with you.
 

Terry57

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Meagan, I also want to thank you for sharing Josh's story. I am in awe of the men and women who risk their lives every day to protect the rest of us. What a wonderful person Jill is as well, to honour his memory and see that he is not forgotten by anyone. He lives on in all the good deeds that are now being done, as well as in the hearts of all who loved him
I know what a horrible day yesterday must have been for so many, and my prayers go out to you all:(
 
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Ducatimom

Ducatimom

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Jun 10, 2014
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Colorado Springs, CO
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6 yr old Sun Conure (Ducati)
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Thank you so much everybody. I still keep thinking what Jill must've went through that night and that sets me off again. She has been doing good. She's moved on and found someone who treats her amazingly, and I know that's what Josh would've wanted for her.
 

PetoftheDay

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Dec 27, 2010
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Boston area, MA
By simply telling his story here, you have helped his memory live on.

Although stories of abuse and corruption amongst law enforcement are what make headlines, I have great respect for the ordinary, hard-working men and women who do this job every day.

My beloved paternal grandfather was a Police Chief, so I may be a bit biased - but I am okay with that!
 

ruffledfeathers

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The huge majority of law enforcement officers are brave, strong and good people. People who want to criticize them don't seem to think through what is involved in their job.

I respect and am thankful for people who are willing to make sacrifices for my safety!

Thanks for honoring his memory.
 
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Ducatimom

Ducatimom

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Jun 10, 2014
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Colorado Springs, CO
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6 yr old Sun Conure (Ducati)
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Thank you so much everybody. My mom was the head dispatcher at the Sherrif's office at the time, I grew up with the Sherrif's son (we had the same babysitter). All the officers, dispatchers, and jailers became family with as long as my mom worked there. It was just one of those things that you never think will happen in your town. Especially when that town is literally 1 sq mile with maybe 3,000 people. I hear the rememberance trek went very well this weekend as did the banquet. Hopefully I'll have enough vacation time saved up to be able to go next year.
 

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