Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

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."

Westerville
Ohio

November 5, 2005

95th recruit class....

November 5, 2005

Jim Gilbert
95th Recruit Class

Jim Gilbert
Columbus PD

November 4, 2005

Bryan,

It was 9 years ago today, Nov. 3,1996 I first met you..Our first day at the Columbus Police Academy... We hit it off right away because we had both moved here away from our parents and friends.. Our class will never be the same without you.. Take care of us...

96TH RECRUIT CLASS

Jim Gilbert
Columbus PD

November 3, 2005

Bryan-

Everytime I check this site, I pray that no one new has been added. Honestly, I don't think any of us ever realized how many officers sacrifice their lives in a year...

So much has been going on lately. I think there have been two different benefits since I last wrote. First, there was an awesome motorcycle 'poker' run held in your memory. The bikes did a loop by the bank and then to your gravesite. It was amazing to see the hundreds of motorcycles coming into the cemetery. I brought Malia and she was fascinated by them. I remember how you told me about telling your parents how you were thinking about getting a motorcycle....then just a short time later they got you the Mustang! Guess they really, really, really didn't want you on a bike. I feel the same way usually, but bikes are really starting to grow on me. After the poker run, there was a luncheon at a great Marine Corps diner called Frankie's. You would have loved this place - all USMC memorabalia on the walls. Now, there is a huge plaque hanging in your honor. It looks awesome.

Earlier this week was the Crimestoppers Awards Ceremony, where you were awarded Officer of the Year. Angie, one of the 5/3 Bank employees, read a very emotional letter about what it was like to be in the bank that day. It took a lot of strength for her to get up there, but I'm so glad she did. It was an amazing letter and it was so apparent that the employees will never, ever forget that you laid down your life for them. Bryan, I was so proud of you when she was reading that letter. It was definitely a different perspective for me; I had never considered how this might have affected them. On a side note, I'm sure you were laughing your butt off from above at the enormous plastic security ink tag on my suit jacket that the cashier at the outlet mall forgot to remove. Nothing like accepting an award at the Crimestoppers Breakfast while wearing what appears to be a stolen suit.

Malia has been busy with Halloween activities all week. She has two Halloween costumes - a bunny and a big flower. She wore the bunny to Theresa's party. Malia got to ride a pony and was THRILLED. So, of course, my brain was going a million miles a minute thinking about getting her a pony. Not that you can have one in a subdivision, but I can always dream. I think she will wear the flower costume for Trick or Treat tomorrow night. I know she will love walking around the neighborhood and seeing the other kids.

This will be our first holiday season without you. I've been thinking about that lately. I think there was some type of 'intervention' last year, with me not being back at work yet, since you know cops work every stinkin holiday. We all got to be together last year, at Malia's first Christmas. We had Christmas and New Years, and then everything changed just 5 days later. It still sometimes seems unreal. Christmas will definitely be different this year, but I know you will be watching Malia rip open her gifts. One thing that really sticks out in my mind about last year is you and I taking Malia to the Alum Creek drive-thru light show. We made such a big production about bundling her up and getting her ready and then she slept through the entire thing. That was funny. I'll make sure she sees it this year.

Bryan, you would probably have killed this puppy I got in August. His favorite activities are shredding magazines, newspapers, paper towels and toilet paper. My mom and I made a beautiful fall outdoor display with cornstalks, indian corn, pumpkins, and gourds. Within 2 weeks, he either ate or destroyed 75% of it. Like I said, you would not be happy with him :) The thing is, stuff like that would have really pi**ed me off before, but now the little things don't bother me. Once something truly devastating happens to you, magazine shredding is no big thing. If I can cite one positive thing that has happened out of this, it would be no longer sweating the little things.

We are all awaiting your headstone, which is supposed to be laid within the next week. I know that it will bring peace and maybe the beginning of closure for those who needs it. I know it will be hard to finally see it, because it is a sign of the permanency of the situation. Regardless, we need it there.

We are missing you everyday and every night. Malia and I look at your photos on her dresser every night before she goes to sleep. Keep watching over us and keep us all safe.

We love you.

-Marissa and Malia

p.s. I'll be thinking of you this Nov. 6th. I know you would never let me forget the birthday of the United States Marine Corps!

Marissa
DCSO

October 30, 2005

I thought about you all day today... after working 3rd shift last night I stayed up and did an Honor Guard detail "presentation of Colors" for the Crimestoppers Breakfast.. They awarded you the Officer of the Year Award for your actions at the bank. I worked BankOne today spl. duty and kept playing over and over in my head what that morning must have been like for you.. You were and are a true HERO... please watch over us ...

Officer Jim Gilbert
Columbus Division of Police

October 26, 2005

Just wanted to say that we are all still thinking about you and praying for your loved ones.

P.O. Robert Sagle #2254
Columbus Ohio Division of Police

October 25, 2005

"Who You’d Be Today"

Sunny days seem to hurt the most
I wear the pain like a heavy coat
I feel you everywhere I go
I see your smile
I see your face
I hear you laughing in the rain
I still can’t believe you’re gone
It aint fair you died too young
Like the story that had just begun
But death tore the pages all away
God knows how I miss you
All the hell that I’ve been through
Just knowing no one could take your place
Sometimes I wonder who you’d be today
Would you see the world?
Would you chase your dreams?
Settle down with a family
I wonder what would you name your babies
Some days the sky’s so blue
I feel like I can talk to you
I know it might sound crazy
It aint fair you died too young
Like a story that had just begun
But death tore the pages all away
God knows how I miss you
All the hell that I’ve been through
Just knowing no one could take your place
Sometimes I wonder who you’d be today
Today (repeats 5 more times)
Sunny days seem to hurt the most
I wear the pain like a heavy coat
The only thing that gives me hope
Is I know I’ll see you again some day
Some day
Some day

October 21, 2005

My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Detective
Putnam County Sheriffs Office

October 19, 2005

On Sweetest Day, October 15th, Malia and I visited your grave and placed a "Love-A-Lot" Care Bear there for you. Malia looks at your pictures throughout the house and always points "DaDa". (Even is the pictures are of Freckles and Zoe) She is such a loving, bright, and happy little girl. From heaven, I know that you see all the funny little things she does. Your life and sacrifice in the line of duty has given me inspiration and courage to face challenges on a daily basis. Seeing the many reflections in your memory reaffirms the wonderful and respected person you are to so many. Please know that I continue to keep you close to my heart and am forever grateful for the gift of Malia. Continue to watch over us.

Sherri A. Marzick
Mother-in-Law

October 19, 2005

To Marissa, Its been awhile since I last spoken to you. I remember it was in March 2004 and we were talking about the weight we were gaining being pregnant. I wish I could have gotten to know you better, but unfortuntily the dept., didnt give me that much time. I know you been dealing with issues with your department. I been getting calls from agencies that are trying to seek justice. I am trying to help as much as possible. I know what you went though and I believe that was just wrong. I know that Bryan would want to see that little girl of yours grow in a strong woman. I know you will make her into a strong woman, who can help change the world. I was watching Oprah yesterday and they had a show about phenomenal females that viewers need to get to know, and I thought of you and Brandy Winfield wife. They needed to know the courage that takes you guys to get out of bed everyday, to take care of your children and to continue life with out your husbands. My husband is a police officer for the state and I dont know how I would be able to get out of bed. But you two are my heroes just like your husbands and dont forget that. You both are extraordinary women to be able to carry on after your husbands death. I am sure Bryan would be very proud of you.
Always in my prayers
Yvonne Schilling

Yvonne Schilling

October 18, 2005

Marissa,
I hope all is going well for you. I saw your reflection on Bran's website. Thank you. People ask me about you all the time. We would love to have you join us for some COPS events. We are trying to plan lots of fun stuff for the kids and the surviving spouses alike. All of us were thinking like a spa weekend.. Imagine that.

I check Bryan's site often. I really like what you put from Dr. Phil. (We are all allowed our silly fixes). But seriously life is about the living. Bryan would want you to live it to the fullest and show Malia how to live it to the fullest. I have found it so hard to balance continuing life without Brandy yet keeping his memory alive with the boys. It is very hard. You have to be able to let go of some things just to live daily. Yet you want them to remember their father. It isn't easy and nobody knows what this journey is like until they have ventured it. This is such an individual process, there isn't a right or wrong way to do it. If someone says you are wrong in the path you are walking they have never had to walk this path. Do what is right for you in your heart. At Bran's funeral Sheriff Karnes whispered three words of advice for me that I have tried to follow through this first year...he said Listen to God, Listen to your heart, and Listen to the ladies from COPS. It has been hard at times but I think he gave me some good advice. Hold your head high and know that Bryan would want you to continue with your life in the manner that you feel is best...

I thought of you tonight when I took the boys to the PBR. I saw a man on a horse. I hope that you have gotten another horse. I know how you dearly loved the one that you had. We all need an outlet.

Much love and hope to hear from you soon.

Sara Winfield
Wife of Brandy EOW 10/14/04

October 16, 2005

Marissa,
I was thinking about you and thought I would say hi! I would love to get together sometime for that awesome shopping trip that we've been talking about forever!! You need to stop over sometime...if you're ever in the neighborhood, call me. I hope you still have my number. If not, email me. I don't have your most recent email. I need it! We would love to see you at the COPS meeting on Sun. Its at my house...I hope you and the baby are doing well and I think about you often.

Krissy Ensoll

October 14, 2005

To Bryan's wife,

Always remind your daughter that her father was a hero, a sheep dog, protecting the sheep from the wolf.

Patrolman
New Mexico State Police

October 12, 2005

Bryan,
I have never met you before but I was reading all of your reflections and it is amazing how loved you are by your wife, child, friends and family! I only hope that the rest of us have as much support and love. Going into this job scares me a little when I look at this page, but I know that this is what God wants me to do with my life. I do this for my friends and family and as well for you to try and follow in your footsteps becuase you were such a wonderful officer! Rest in Peace...

Police Academy Recruit

October 11, 2005

Bryan I read your page everyday and it hurts everytime. I never got the chance to know you that well but have gotten to know several of your close friends. I am amazed at the amount of love and compassion you shared with your family and friends. You are missed by everyone. Continue to look over us from your post in Heaven!!

Police Officer Larry Waltermyer
Columbus,Ohio PD

October 10, 2005

Bryan,
On Friday, my wife and I were watching Lima Co. come home. We were touched by the support of our community. It made us think of how, if you were here, you'd be out there! It also made us think about the cold and rainy day you were buried. How many great and supportive citizens lined the street with flags and signs. It felt bittersweet. Both occasions were about selfless heroes! Think of you and your family often!
PO
Columbus Police Dept.

October 10, 2005

You were on my mind all day yesterday... I was thinking about your service to this country and how proud you were to be a US Marine. I stood in the rain in uniform yesterday along Hamilton Rd saluting our Marines from Lima Company who just returned from Iraq. I teared up as they passed by me thinking about you somewhere along the route doing the same if only you were still here with us... I miss you please Keep us safe from up in Heaven brother....

Po Jim Gilbert
CPD

October 8, 2005

Bryan,
I should write to you more but it is kind of hard for me, since you and Melissa were killed so close together. I come here often and write Melissa and read yours. I and glad to know that your family is doing as well as can be expected. It has to be very hard for Marisa but she has a wonderful support group here and rest easy knowing they will take care of her and the rest of your family. I used to find it so easy to put to words to my feelings but I cant right now. Just know you will never be forgotten.

Robert Thornton
Friend Of CPD Officer Melissa Foster EOW12/04/04

robert thornton

October 8, 2005

Bryan,
I just wanted to say hi. As you know, I have taken both of my boys to see you. You would have loved it the other day - we played a joke on your old midwatch sergeant. You would have played right along! It all seems so unreal even at this time. I'm still trying to make sense of it. I really miss talking with you about those 5 pct. days, though they didn't last long enough, and laughing about current events at CPD. I just want you to know that I've passed your memory to my sons so that they know what "courage" and "hero" mean. I wish you were back at 2/18 sub - maybe you could square those new guys away! Take care of yourself - not a day goes by that I don't think of you and what you did. You gave me a new outlook as far as how I see each and every day. You remain a hero!

Ron

Sgt. Ron Kemmerling
CPD

October 7, 2005

This came from a forward from a friend thought to share it with you even though I didn't really know you.

"If tomorrow starts without me,
And I'm not there to see,
If the sun should rise and find your eyes all filled with tears for me;
I wish so much you wouldn't cry the way you did today,
While thinking of the many things, We didn't get to say.
I know how much you love me,
As much as I love you,
And each time that you think of me,I know you'll miss me too;
But when tomorrow starts without me,
Please try to understand,
That an angel came and called my name,
And took me by the hand,
And said my place was ready,
In heaven far above,
And that I'd have to leave behind all those I dearly love.
But as I turned to walk away,
A tear fell from my eye, For all my life,
I'd always thought, I didn't want to die.
I had so much to live for,
So much left yet to do,
It seemed almost impossible,
That I was leaving you.
I thought of all the yesterdays,
The good ones and the bad,
I thought of all that we shared,
And all the fun we had.
If I could relive yesterday,
Just even for a while,
I'd say good-bye and kiss you and maybe see you smile.
But then I fully realized,That this could never be,
For emptiness and memories, would take the place of me.
And when I thought of worldly things,
I might miss come tomorrow,
I thought of you, and when I did,
My heart was filled with sorrow.
But when I walked through heaven's gates,
I felt so much at home.
When God looked down and smiled at me,
From His great golden throne,
He said, "This is eternity, And all I've promised you."
Today your life on earth is past, but here life starts anew.
I promise no tomorrow, But today will always last,
and since each days the same way,
There's no longing for the past.
You have been so faithful,So trusting and so true.
Though there were times you did some things,You knew you shouldn't do.
But you have been forgiven, and now at last you're free.
So won't you come and take my hand, and share my life with
me?
So when tomorrow starts without me, don't think we're far
apart,
For every time you think of me, I'm right here, in your heart

Westerville

October 7, 2005

Bryan,
Although I didn't know you, you and your wife were patients at my dads dental office in Worthington. As im sure you know, he was suddenly killed in a plane crash in south carolina on July 24th. Since he knew you and your wife, we chose to burry him close to you. While I was at my dads grave today i ran into your sister and her young child. It really shows how much she cares about you and how much she misses you. Whenever I visit my daddy I always take time to say hello to you too;and water your flowers if they look like they need it:-) Take care Bryan and I hope you are in a better place now with my dad, Dr. Bill Coulman. And to the family of Bryan, God bless, you will get through all of this.
Lauren Coulman

Lauren Coulman

October 3, 2005

Gumper,

Just got back from the cemetery. We're having a Memorial Motorcycle Ride for you tomorrow and I can't wait. We should have 250 bikes or so. I'll let you know tomorrow. Me and your brother will be driving the Stang!

Miss You,

Donnie

Sgt. Donald Oliverio
Columbus, OH PD

October 2, 2005

Hello Bryan,
It seems like yesterday that I came to Columbus to honor you on that rainy morning. Of all the funeral details I have represented my department for with the Honor Guard, I remember yours most. I envy you, you were surrounded by some of the most outstanding men and women during your time here and I have actually kept in contact with your officers I met in January of 2005. In Washington D.C. for Memorial Weekend, I was overjoyed to see Columbus P.D. vehicles. And to my understanding the same was true for C.P.D. as well. Although I hear Marissa was more excited than most. (Marissa, don't those Crown Vic's handle well?!) It brings me joy to hear that your beautifull daughter is doing so well and has clebrated her first birthday. I know she is proud of her father.
I hope all is well for you above, and I am sure that the coward of a man who caused this web page to be created will soon get his pusishment, both down here and when he meets our maker.
Good luck Bryan, I hurts me to not have known you in this life here, but I am sure we will share a pint when I see you above! So long Gumper!!

Scott Carns
Syracuse Police, New York

September 28, 2005

Hi Bryan. Mom was there in the court room, staring at Daryl Lawrence, and she said he smiled and acted real cocky. He wouldn't look at her. I don't want to hear anything he or his lawyers have to say. I only want to see him suffer. I hope that he is executed.
I really miss you. I love you, and I wish you were around to see how rough your daughter is!!!! She's somethin else. She was so cute at the zoo, and Cole just loves her. She and Cole have matching Dora the explorer suit cases! It's really too bad you're not around to see Greg's son strutting around with his pink reading glasses and pink suitcase.

Stacey

September 27, 2005