Northumberland County Sheriff's Office, Virginia
End of Watch Sunday, June 19, 2005
Reflections for Deputy Sheriff John Walter Sanford, Jr.
“REMEMBER ME”
Law enforcement officers are, indeed, a special breed of people. Ask anyone on the street and they will tell you that they would not have our jobs for anything in the world. It takes something special to do what we do and at the same time be able to even contemplate retirement. We try to be optimists. Unfortunately, there are a few of us who will never make that date with retirement. By the very nature of our job, we are at risk everyday of losing our lives, either at the hand of some deranged individual or in some other situation that we, by virtue of our occupation, may be unable to avoid. Some people have recognized the hazardous duties we involve ourselves in, the risks we take, and the pride we take in accomplishing that job. There is National Law Enforcement Week, dedicated to us who gladly accept the responsibility of protecting the citizens in our respective jurisdictions. National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Day is dedicated to those who gave their lives in the line of duty. These are but a two examples of remembrances specifically for law enforcement personnel. Remembrances that come but once a year. We should remind fellow officers of another type of remembrance, one that will last a lifetime. Sooner or later, a doctor will pronounce us dead. It is inevitable. Regardless of whatever happens, death is the end we will all have to face.
“IT IS IN DEATH THAT WE CAN LIVE FOREVER”
Author Unknown
Jim Moore
New Orleans P.D., Retired
June 19, 2005
Again we mourn as another hero is taken from us. My deepest sympathy to the family, friends and co-workers of Deputy Sanford Jr. May the Lord give you strength and bless each of you during this time.
Rest in peace for your watch here is over; walk in heavens beat and guide us to protect and serve others safely.
US Ranger Catroppa
National Park Service, GA
June 19, 2005
I wish you and your family the best. This is a terrible tragedy and will not be easy to get over. Stay with your family and loved ones as they will really need you at this time. My thoughts and prayers are with your family and co-workers.
June 19, 2005
Deputy Sanford,
God Bless You and Your Family!!!!
Correctional Officer
California Department Of Corrections
June 19, 2005
It is my prayer that the family friends and co-workers of Deputy Sheriff John W. Sanford Jr. find some sense of peace during this difficult time.
Just know there are lots of folks all across this country that care very deeply and will lift you up before the Almighty. May God continue to pour out His eternal love and endless blessings.
Patrolman Doug Hutchison
Irving Police Department, Texas, retired.
June 19, 2005