Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

It is stated when a person passes from this world and comes before the Heavenly Tribunal, they are asked by Our creator, did you allow for a time to be spiritual? If the answer is in the affirmative, that person is in for a great reward. Say a little and do much. Talking and doing are nice, but performing good deeds will let someone realize there is more to accomplish. My friend, neighbor, and hero Officer Cook, I'm sure you enjoyed chatting with your colleagues, and when it came down to acting and taking charge of a situation, you truly were one of your department's best. I understand you could be the life of the party, and say something to make one crack up laughing and yet your attitude when it came to calming down individuals was par excellence. I'm pretty sure when you had to think fast on your feet you were able to be creative in the sense of achieving your goal of uniting your colleagues in making certain the streets were safe. It is said that life is comparable to table of food, and one must choose carefully. The wise choices and decisions you made as an officer will never be forgotten and all those that were privileged to know you won't soon forget the wisdom beyond your years. Rest in peace and give us the ability to gain the insights that highlighted your prosperous career. There are a lot of departments embroiled in turmoil with their officers and Officer Cook, if you were with us today, you could teach these officers the value and true meaning of what honesty and integrity mean to the morale of a department. At the time when your worked out of the Central District it was considered a dangerous zone, but you were not afraid to perform your duty faithfully, and discharge it with the honor that befitted the position. You strived to be the best and that is all that Dade County citizens can ask of its officers. As you joined the ranks of your fellow officers who made the ultimate sacrifice, we have no doubt God's blessings will shine down on your family and loved ones. Continue to watch over us and provide us the wisdom to see light and darkness. Let that smile glow like the shining sun.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 8, 2012

The testimony of God is trustworthy, making the simple one wise. The orders of God are upright, gladdening the heart: the command of God is clear, enlightening the eyes. The fear of God is pure, enduring forever: the judgments of god are true, altogether righteous. They are more desirable than gold. As a devout person, Officer Cook the achievements you accomplished are the living testimony of what it means to succeed, by pursuing your hopes and dreams. In order to succeed, one must take chances, but look at every situation that comes along rationally. The dedicated law enforcement professional that you were came about not on a hope and prayer, but rather through sweat and toil, training, knowledge and constant review. It takes quite a lot of tests both physical and psychological for one to reach the pinnacle of success in your profession. This is not a career for the faint of heart, and before one embarks on this path, one must be quite certain this is how they want to go forward.Officer Cook, from your days as a youngster I believe this is the path in life you set for yourself. The courage and bravery you so displayed every day and took pride in all that you accomplished can be traced back to these statements in Psalm nineteen. You put your faith in God each day to watch over you and guide you safely as you so vigilantly policed Dade County streets.You placed your very existence before that of your friends in order to shield them from harm. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero in everlasting glory as you now patrol our streets from the heavens above. I could not be prouder of you even though I never personally met you, and I'll always have this regret. The love you showed to your wife, Karen, the love and honor you afforded your parents and to your loving sister,Nancy, who loved you and you to each other can never be taken away or replaced. Your dad, Charles and you are held together in the palm of God's hands and are sheltered under his eternal wings to rest eternally. The wisdom you obtained will forever be with you until we are all reunited again.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 7, 2012

There is an answer to all this trouble and turmoil, and the answer is conscience. The greatest beacon light God sends to all, the conscience of each bosom. With all this adversity, the quality we should strive to possess is a good eye. How beautifully true. The eye is the window of the soul. It can reveal love, kindness, goodness and understanding. A good eye rejoices in the happiness of others and shows sensitivity to others feelings. God forbid, an evil eye casts hatred, enmity, doom and destruction. Maybe, if there was more love in the world, we would not be wondering about an end rather than a new beginning. Loving peace, pursuing peace, loving your fellow sister or brother, the golden rule of life, and drawing them closer to you. We are are responsible for our actions and deeds. Officer Cook, these words so beautifully paint a lovely portrait of the rich life you lived and how you so skillfully demonstrated to each of us how to compose ourselves. Let your conscience be your guide is precisely how your memory should be perpetuated daily.Your tragic death is the blueprint of how to live life to the fullest everyday and accomplished all that you dreamed and desired to be. It takes a very secure person in their belief to do what your set out to do. To achieve greatness and to lead by example, we can't find anything more valuable to cling to. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero and be that beacon of light that helps and affords us the opportunity to reign in the violence that casts a shadow over the light. Your our inspiration to so many who knew and loved you and we shall forever cherish the beautiful memories of a well lived life. You sacrificed your very soul so that those who knew you, even those who did not can rejoice and be happy each and every day. The people of Dade County should go to sleep nightly knowing who you were and what it took for you to make them safe, sound, and secure. The righteous person in you saw that others were cared for before your needs were met. You always went the extra mile to enhance the necessities of others. God rewards those who help others and you have reaped your share in the next world and will continue to look down on us forever more. As someone who thinks about you and your family, your twenty-five years on earth were spent only accentuating positives. I still wish I had the opportunity to meet and embrace you, though I still would love to meet your wonderful mother, Mrs. Julia Cook, God bless her and your lovely family.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 6, 2012

Not gold but only men can make a people great and strong. men who for truth and honor's sake stand fast and suffer long. brave men who work while others sleep who dare while others fly... They build a nation's pillars deep, and lift them to the sky. My neighbor, friend and hero, Officer Cook, your heart was as pure as gold, with the disposition as sweet as honey, a great and wonderful human being to be acquainted with, and made up of strong pride. You worked all different shifts I'm certain, that most would never dare to do, you worked all night sacrificing for your family and community. You were the pillar, the glue as it was written that kept your family together. We have to keep up the battle that you waged to prevent innocent ones from suffering. Your pleasant demeanor is all we need to know. The spirits of those who you crossed paths with, you lifted them skyward and now they can look upward and see your countenance shining down on them. Rest in peace and continue lifting those who are downtrodden. The passion, pride, honor, and dedication displayed daily by you will continue as long as we always remember your brave sacrifice. You were the ultimate professional who could be counted on when the going got tough. Thank God for men and women like yourself who tackle situations that most everyday individuals would not.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 6, 2012

A little garden, fragrant and full of roses. The path is narrow and a little boy walks along it. A little boy, a sweet boy, like that growing blossom. When the blossom comes to bloom, the little boy will be no more. Confusion confronts us constantly, our face is covered with shame. All this has come upon us, yet we have not forgotten You, we have not been false to your covenant. For your sake are we killed constantly, treated as sheep for slaughter. Why do you hide your presence? Why do you forget our affliction, our oppression? Our spirit is down in the dust, our body cleaves to the ground. A young boy you once were Officer Cook, growing up with so much promise to live out you dreams and desire to become a police officer dedicated to preserving and protecting mankind from the perils that lurk to this day in this world. Your tragic death confounds and puzzles your family, friends and colleagues to this day, and yet the resolve they have to keep your memory strong and faithful in their hearts, does indicate that you are really very near to us. Your physical being returned to Our Creator and your beloved soul ascended to God's pearly gates above. Your presence is must definitely missed by all and rest assured you will never be forgotten by myself or your loved ones.. There is a song that states, "confusion is nothing new", as a Rabbi who preaches to senior citizens each week, I try to unwrap these and other mysteries. One day we will understand God's ways and reasons for such tragedies and calamities. For now, rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero, and help us cast light on why it is that God takes a wonderful, loving and humble individual as yourself to His Kingdom in the next world. You always gave one-hundred percent during your distinguished law enforcement career and the sacrifice you made on that fateful day serves as a wake up call to us. Not only do we have to act as you did, we have to go the extra mile to make this world a safer and more prosperous environment and let the memory of Officer William Coleman Cook, be that beacon of light that forever shines brightly each waking moment of our lives. Thank you for all that you did to make us feel more at ease.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 4, 2012

Intelligent planning, sincerity, and perseverance are necessary for success. We need light in our lives, religious light, spiritual light, light that travels heavenward. When we kindle a candle, the flame goes up by itself. When the flame goes up, we elevate ourselves too. Officer Cook, you planned your life, success in all your endeavors from a very young age. Your whole life was straight in front of you. The words of compassion and kindness you so bravely displayed during your law enforcement career rang true as a bell. Your marvelous family knew that you wanted to influence people in a positive way and you succeeded beyond expectation. Your cherished soul now serves as a beacon of light that illuminates those who are charged with carrying on your rich legacy. Just keep smiling down on us my neighbor, friend and hero and rest in everlasting peace and we will attempt to pick up the torch which you lit for us and used to dispel the darkness and evil which unfortunately still exists in society,the society which you so bravely protected and kept watch over. I'll always as I reflected in the past, I will say a prayer for your mother, Mrs. Julia Cook. To have written me that lovely letter at age ninety-five, I thought it was really very touching and quite inspirational on her part to take the time to answer me back. I still have hopes of meeting her even if I would have to fly out to San Diego, California. God bless her and the rest of your beautiful family members.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 4, 2012

Happy is the man who lives in fear of sin: Reckless men will come to grief.Our God and God of our fathers, Forgive us, pardon us, clear us. We are your people, and you are our God: We are your children, and you are our father. We are your servants, and you are our Lord: We are your community, and you are our Heritage. We are your possession, and you are our Destiny: We are your flock, and you are our Shepard. We are your vineyard, and you are our Keeper: We are your work, and you are our Creator. We are your faithful, and you are our Beloved: We are your chosen, and you are our Friend, We are your subjects, and you are our King: We are your worshipers, and you are our exalting One. Powerful words to live by my neighbor, friend and hero Officer Cook. It is safe to say precisely the words of these phrases which to the utmost describes the wonderful and fulfilling life you lived and sacrificed for us all. You can be certain you have received the most heavenly reward upon which God bestows upon his mortal servants. Beautiful words to remember the legacy of the cherished life of Officer William Coleman Cook. An angel, a true blue angel protecting and keeping watch above us all. You did your job and carried out your assignments as you were trained to do. I'm proud to have read and to have met some of your wonderful family members, who to this day not only miss you, but remember you in deed and in spirit. You gave all each day to your wife, Karen and to the community of Dade County with which you were responsible for policing. Your kept your priorities in order and never backed down from the face of danger. There couldn't be anything more special than laying down your life to protect your fellow officers as you performed so bravely that day of May 16, 1979. Rest in peace and one day we'll all see that beautiful smile of your's once again as it shines down on us and helps make the sad days a little happier. It is your devote being that has earned you a special place among God's heavenly angels. We will try to stay the course down here as you guide us through the perils of life each moment. Your parents and sister and to all of your special family members, you can take solace in knowing you indeed raised a true and inspirational hero, one who will never be forgotten.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 2, 2012

Awesome God, let us live: forgive. Our merits few, we look to you. Save us from foes: Your power just, in You we trust. Our ancestors great, our merits few, our lives renew. In spite of sin, again help us begin. Your flock embrace, with love and grace. In great compassion, forgiveness fashion. Let joy, not strife, embrace our life. Redemption bring, that we may sing. The gates are closing. This beautiful chapter of your rich and revered life Officer Cook, began at your birth and continued for the next twenty-five years as your accomplishments in your career multiplied and the grace, dignity, humility in which you performed your job reached its zenith. You were a true friend to all who crossed paths with you professionally and personally. You might have been described as the straw that stirred the drink. I'm not sure they would say that at your department. I'll mention it, as you were a source of calmness, being able to deal with all people from different walks of life. Your zest for life, your devotion to your family and friends shows just how truly remarkable an individual you were. A brave and valiant person who carried the ideals you were raised with, and the sacrifice you made for your colleagues and family that will never be forgotten. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

September 29, 2012

Of steel and iron, cold and hard and numb, now forge yourself a heart and come to walk the world of slaughter. You shall walk in and out of ruins, look in where all the black and gaping holes appear like ragged wounds that neither wait nor hope for healing more in all this world. After all these years of your tragic passing the world still has to deal with turmoil and bloodshed. My neighbor, friend and hero, Officer Cook, while you so aggressively patrolled the streets to make them safer, we at least can take the time to honor your solemn memory and lend a hand to those who so patrol these streets today. There are so many wounds left to ponder, it's beyond reason at times as to why violence cannot be stopped altogether. You waged a battle with those who saw fit to take over the streets and let violence rein down and you were a great source of strength and inspiration in trying to calm individuals down who were bent on destruction and mayhem. It's a crying tragedy what took place on May 16, 1979 when you stood and took up a brave and valiant effort to calm one man down who was looking to glorify himself in violence and mayhem. Your valor will forever reflect the courage you brought to your law enforcement position each day. Rest in peace and keep smiling down on us.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

September 28, 2012

Days are scrolls. Write there only what you would like to have remembered about you. it is said that when righteousness and justice become a reality upon the earth, all that is savage and brutal will vanish and all wickedness will disappear. Strife and war will no longer devastate the lands and discord will no longer tear apart mankind. Officer Cook from the day you were born, your golden scroll was inscribed with only goodness, and all that you stood for. The inspired way you carried yourself in deeds and as a law enforcement officer can only reinforce the terrific upbringing in which those who knew you were able to enlighten themselves. We can cherish hopes, embrace values and perform deeds which your untimely passing cannot destroy. Many men have done superbly, but you surpass them all. As my family just observed the solemn Day of Atonement, also called Yom Kippur, we are reminded on this day that God hears and sees our prayers of repentance and how much we contribute to charity. You cannot run from God. As devout a person that you were, it's easy to understand the compassion you exhibited both on duty and in your private life. Still wished we had met. You could be like an older brother to me. This is probably why your passing leaves me very sad to this day. Rest in peace Officer Cook, my neighbor, friend and hero. For we know this world is no waiting room for eternity. Eternity is here among us. Several law enforcement officers joined you in heaven, so keep watch with them over us. You certainly were very much loved and are greatly missed this day.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

September 27, 2012

The right way to live your life is by the middle course. A person's temperament which is no nearer one extreme than the other. A person should strive to be neither hilarious nor gloomy, but always quietly happy and cheerful. if one lives in between, they are called wise. It goes without saying that we should endeavor to regulate our conduct as far as possible and to be Godly. if we do the proper things in life, evil is kept away from us. God watches our souls as we come and go now and ever. Officer Cook, my neighbor, friend and hero, the life you and your wife Karen led spiritually was one of trust, honor, compassion and the pursuits of happiness. Even though I didn't know you personally, a big regret I carry with me to this day, you were a happy and healthy individual who symbolized the essence of a life well lived. As I reflected earlier, I'm sure you and Karen would have made great parents and all that your parents instilled in you. You keep that beautiful shining smile looking down on your family, friends and loved ones. We will smile as we look up to the heavens above that you so diligently patrol. I want to offer a little prayer in loving memory of a beautiful human being, Officer William Coleman Cook, who lived the right way and gave of himself to protect us from society's evil ways. Merciful father, we lift our hearts up to thee as we recall with tearful tenderness, this great gentleman Officer William Coleman Cook, who is no longer with us in the land of the living. Grant peace of mind to those of his loved ones who bear deep wounds in their hearts today. may consolation come to them soon. May they find comfort in knowing that death is the wish of some, the relief of many, and the end to all. it places all mortals on the same level. Death separates, but it also unites. It reunites those it separates. may the memory of our departed loved one, Officer William Coleman Cook inspire us to live nobly and charitably as he did and to animate with cheerfulness all those who surround us. O Lord, let us all find sustaining hope in thee who has been our source of strength and comfort throughout the ages. Amen. Rest in peace Officer Cook and guide our lives on the pathways that you followed in the land of the living. You good deeds will always serve as our source of inspiration.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

September 21, 2012

The right way to live your life is by the middle course. A person's temperament which is no nearer one extreme than the other. A person should strive to be neither hilarious nor gloomy, but always quietly happy and cheerful. if one lives in between, they are called wise. It goes without saying that we should endeavor to regulate our conduct as far as possible and to be Godly. if we do the proper things in life, evil is kept away from us. God watches our souls as we come and go now and ever. Officer Cook, my neighbor, friend and hero, the life you and your wife Karen led spiritually was one of trust, honor, compassion and the pursuits of happiness. Even though I didn't know you personally, a big regret I carry with me to this day, you were a happy and healthy individual who symbolized the essence of a life well lived. As I reflected earlier, I'm sure you and Karen would have made great parents and all that your parents instilled in you. You keep that beautiful shining smile looking down on your family, friends and loved ones. We will smile as we look up to the heavens above that you so diligently patrol. I want to offer a little prayer in loving memory of a beautiful human being, Officer William Coleman Cook, who lived the right way and gave of himself to protect us from society's evil ways. Merciful father, we lift our hearts up to thee as we recall with tearful tenderness, this great gentleman Officer William Coleman Cook, who is no longer with us in the land of the living. Grant peace of mind to those of his loved ones who bear deep wounds in their hearts today. may consolation come to them soon. May they find comfort in knowing that death is the wish of some, the relief of many, and the end to all. it places all mortals on the same level. Death separates, but it also unites. It reunites those it separates. may the memory of our departed loved one, Officer William Coleman Cook inspire us to live nobly and charitably as he did and to animate with cheerfulness all those who surround us. O Lord, let us all find sustaining hope in thee who has been our source of strength and comfort throughout the ages. Amen. Rest in peace Officer Cook and guides our lives on the pathways that you followed in the land of the living. You good deeds will always serve as our source of inspiration.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

September 21, 2012

A kind man does good to himself: A cruel man does himself harm. A good name is a better choice than great riches: A good reputation is more than silver and gold. let others praise you, not yourself: Not your own lips, but someone else. Gracious and merciful is the Lord, Slow to anger and of great kindness. My neighbor, friend and hero Officer Cook, these words very humbly describe the rich life you exemplified as a human being and the way you treated individuals as a law enforcement officer. Society owes you a tremendous debt of gratitude for all that you accomplished in the twenty-five years lived and the six that you so faithfully carried out as an officer. People who knew my dad who was a police officer like you said he was too nice to be a police officer. I'll say you too were too nice of a person to be a police officer, but I know this was the path you laid out for yourself as a young man. It's a terrible shame the young man who took your life could not have searched in his heart to seek peace and pursue it. Free will that is given by God to us is something not to be taken for granted. Discreetness is the better part of valor. Your valor and generosity can never be taken from you, it's etched on a marble wall at Tropical Park in Miami, Florida along with those of your forty-one comrades who made the ultimate sacrifice on behalf of the people of Dade County. Rest in peace in glorious splendor and we will always remember and cherish your golden reputation.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

September 20, 2012

You who are asleep, wake up! You who are in a trance, arise! Search your doings and repent: Remember your Creator: You who forget constant truth in vanities of the hour. And indulge all year in trifles which cannot profit or save, look rightly into your souls!@ Amend your ways and your deeds: Let each one of you give up his evil course and purpose. Free will is granted to every man. If he chooses to lean to the good course and be righteous, he is at liberty to do so. On the other hand, if he desires to follow the evil course and be wicked, he is likewise free to do so. The man that took your life that awful day, should probably have thought twice about the ramifications of his actions. God only knows the reason, his life and the decisions he made should have been redirected toward good. he had deserted the Army, and that would have been his only blemish. For what he committed against yourself and your comrades, just a tragedy for all of us. A big loss for your family, comrades and friends. Your heroism that day will surely never be lost in this tragedy. You were doing your job and trying to get this person to surrender and make a peaceful resolution to what turned out to be a very difficult situation. You gave your all for Dade County and its citizens and the honor and integrity you brought to your department will forever be honored. Rest in peace and Officer Cook, my neighbor, friend and hero. You represented honor, loyalty and the epitome of integrity and you were a success in your every endeavor. You never had to amend how you performed your law enforcement duties and this is something you can be proud of as is your family. A first class person all the way, and it shows by your proper upbringing. Your parents were never disappointed at you and you only brought grace and loving kindness to them.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

September 18, 2012

I see Thee in the starry field, I see Thee in the harvest's yield, in every breath, in every sound, an echo of Thy name is found. The blade of grass, the simple flower, bear witness to Thy matchless power. Each day we have a new beginning: each day blessings are given to us anew. It is a gift for us to utilize wisely, because the wisdom of living consists in making the most of what has been given to us. To a large extent we are like the maker of cloth who cannot weave without threads. We have the threads to fashion a life. God gives us daily threads. These consist of our hands, eyes, brain, and a soul with the power to do. "O teach us to count our days that we may get us a heart of wisdom." To live well we must have a faith fit to live by, a self fit to live with, and a work fit to live for. Remember thou art immortal. My neighbor, friend and hero Officer Cook, you and your sister Nancy were raised within a beautiful family. The patterns you both weaved as you accomplished much in this world is one to be desired. The tapestry is one we should all pattern and govern ourselves by. Each part of your inner being only achieved greatness, and those who knew you were blessed with your greatness and joyful presence. It is the quality of a man's life that ultimately determines the blessings their souls receive in the next world. Your pure, precious and cherished soul will certainly garner that extra special blessing. I'm certain these last thirty-three years God has watched over you and that unique individual that you were to those who knew and loved you still feel your greatness as it permeates within them. Rest in peace and help us utilize the special gifts God gave to you and as his blue angel patrolling the streets from above. From talking to your niece, Mrs. Gina Wilkerson, your certainly were a very special person, a loving husband, brother, son and uncle to your family. Your passing sure left an impression on me and still I wished I had been able to befriend you. Your an inspiration to me this day and for always will remain so.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

September 15, 2012

Let justice roll down as waters, and righteousness as a mighty stream. The day of May 16, 1979 Officer cook that your life was ended, make no mistake will never be forgotten. During your distinguished career as an officer, you probably had to make a few quick second decisions. Several months after your tragic death, your department was under the shadow of judgment from the Dade County community. A gentleman was speeding in the Liberty City area where you sacrificed your life. Six of your colleagues went on trial for this man's death. In the end they were acquitted of killing him. Tensions in the community back then were running high. The day of your tragedy, I know you and you colleagues were under the same watch. Officer Cook, my neighbor, friend and hero handled the situation as did your colleagues Officers DiGenova, Edgerton and Llincoln, your partner that day acted within professional standards. Justice was served when the man that took your life, had his taken by your fellow officer Detective Blocker. he had no recourse but to discharge his weapon to protect himself and his fellow officers. Just as you went around that Nova to protect your fellow comrades as you heard gunfire and possibly saw your comrade falling out of the car. Officer DiGenova still suffers this day from brain damage and I'm sure thinks greatly of you as we all do. You had to carry out justice, and yet you had to be careful. Simply put, it's a shame what happened that day and your heroic efforts to calm this gentleman down were not in vain. You carried out your job precisely as you were trained to. All the great work that you and your comrade and friend Officer DiGenova did through the years, when you both received numerous commendations, this too shall not be forgotten. Rest in peace and keep watch from the heavens above to make sure we are carrying out justice in a proper and dignified manner, the way you instructed us.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

September 13, 2012

The power of faith is similar to the power of the words and how we address each other. On Friday afternoon, I lead services at various senior living communities in Broward County. One of the prayers we say is "I believe in the sun even when it is not shining. I believe in love even when not feeling it. I believe in God even when he is silent. When someone passes we say Blessed is the God of truth. Simple words made even more powerful when repeated over and over. We have to endeavor to keep the faith even in dire situations. Your passing Officer Cook, left a profound mark on your family, friends and colleagues. For me it left an emptiness one cannot explain. We have to bless Our Creator in good and difficult circumstances. To utter this prayer, as hard as it may be to accept your untimely passing, is the resolve and faith that sustains us. Your mother, Mrs. Julia Cook, who on Monday will turn ninety-seven years young, of course I meant to use the word old. I don't believe old is the correct word to use. After all, age is a chronological number. This is testimony that as a devout person, she has been able to sustain herself all these years, even after the passing of both you and your dad, Mr. Charles Cook. You and your sister Nancy were both brought up with plenty of faith and belief, to go along with high morals and quality character traits. The words you spoke when called upon were fitting and proper, a reflection of your upbringing and serve to reinforce how we should address each other. You were a beloved and cherished son to your parents and to all who came in contact with you either personally or professionally. Faith is rather an act of the spirit, and it's the soul's urge to rise above its own wisdom. As noted in the Book of Psalms, "I chose the path of faith. Your judgments I set before Me, "Lift up your eyes on high and see, who has created these? faith is the best tonic for mankind because faith in the Lord will reward you with courage in time of trouble, and provide you with an adequate purpose in life. Our food, clothing and shelter is dependent on faith and your faith, my neighbor, friend and hero, never wavered with your wife Karen, or your parents who provided the best upbringing for both yourself and your sister Nancy. One day our faith, and the faith you maintained will unite us with you once again. Rest in peace and the onus in us to keep the faith and believe Gods does things, even tragedies such as your sacrifice for a reason. I will never forget you and that lovely letter your mother wrote two years ago to me. As my family beginning Sunday night celebrates the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah, in which our slates are wiped clean and we start from the beginning. I am reminded of a simple story, one that your mother, probably heard of. In the olden days, you took a bottle of soda back to the store, and got something for its return. In order to accomplish something, one needs to make a deposit, if one is going to receive a return. God is rewarding you Officer Cook, for both your deposits and returns in this world for having served Him faithfully with honor and loyalty for twenty-five years.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

September 11, 2012

We ask thy blessings and eternal rest to all our brothers and sisters who have sacrificed their very lives in the performance of their duties. Give their loved ones the peace and strength to bear the anguish of their loss. Remove all resentment from their hearts, knowing that eternal peace and rest will abide their departed loved ones forever. This we beg, Thy name forever and ever. Amen. As your family and colleagues have had to deal with anguish of your untimely death, Officer Cook your commitment will never be forgotten by me and my family. Rest in peace and continue to watch all of us from the heavens above.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

September 8, 2012

A philosopher once remarked, "Dress like a king: live like a king: allow the people to show due respect to you: but be humble in your inmost heart." When a person boasts, it is a sign they don't know anything. Officer Cook , my neighbor, friend and hero, you were a lovable and fun person to be around, whether with your family or colleagues. When you were on duty to performed as a true professional and hero to the zenith. You lived your life with your wife Karen as expected, you had fun, and yet when it came time to put on your uniform you excelled and fought right down to your last breath. I sorely miss you as does your family and friends. Rest in peace and someday we will all be united together with you.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

September 7, 2012

"My Brother"
Although I never met him, I knew him. He was idealistic and believed he could make a difference. he was immensely proud of the uniform and the badge and what they represent. he felt privileged to be of service to his department, community and to his country. he was a cop. Although I never met him, I knew him. He had a strong sense of right and wrong and became frustrated when true justice became sidetracked. he felt the sharp criticism that goes with the job, but he never wavered. He stood by and for his fellow officers. He was a cop. Although I never met him, I knew him. He was friendly, courteous, and polite, yet firm. He laughed and joked, but was serious when necessary. He was competent, trained and professional. He was a cop. Although I never met him, he longed for his family during the long hours. He worried about them when they were apart and during the different shifts, weekends, holidays and midnight. He felt guilty about the lost time, but knew his calling and prayed they would understand. He was a cop. Although I never met him, I knew him. He was a good son, a loving husband and a devoted brother. He was dedicated to the profession and cared about the people he served. He wanted to do the best job that he could and endeavored to be the best he could be. He was a good citizen and neighbor. He was a cop. Yes, I did know him. he was a cop, he was my brother. Rest in peace Officer Cook, Metro-Dade Police Department's brother and fellow officer, and my neighbor, friend and hero. Your colleagues have the watch now and you can watch over them and guide them safely through their daily shifts. You certainly were the essence of a police officer endowed with high morals and impeccable character. I still wish I had the humble opportunity to meet and get to know you. I know people called you by your nicknames of Bill and Billy and your mother Mrs. Julia Cook in her letter to me almost two years ago this month referred to you as my son Bill, and thanking me so much for visiting Billy's grave. I'm sorry but I'll always refer to you as Officer William Cook. I always think of you and as long as I am able, I'll try to visit your grave as much as possible. God rest your precious soul.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

September 6, 2012

"Final Call"
An angel in the sky must leave his place of rest, gently tucking his wings beneath his armored vest. For duty has called, there is much work to do. Little did he know, this on is dressed in blue. Follow me fallen brother, I'll show you the way, your duty has ended, your work is now through, come hang your hat beside me, I'm a cop too. Officer Cook, you were the epitome of a police officer dedicated to serving the public. You didn't just hang your hat, you performed as a public official to the highest degree. Now, because of your sacrifice, officers in Miami-Dade County have side panels to protect them too. Just keep watching over us and rest in peace my neighbor, friend, and hero.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

September 5, 2012

Man has told you what is good, but what does the Lord demand of you other than the doing of justice and the love of kindness and to walk humbly with your God. With the humble is wisdom. Humility is a beautiful virtue, one that should never be neglected. The deeds that you do with the still small voice have a much greater permanence than those accomplished by much fanfare. Officer Cook you were a kind soul, loved by everyone you came in contact with personally or professionally. The deeds that you performed in your twenty-five years of existence can never be forgotten. You truly lived your life with your wife Karen as wisely and humble as one is expected to live. You practiced and preached as your upbringing suggests. It's be said that you were wiser than the years that God placed you in this world. I personally will always have the regret of never having met you or your family. I still hope I can meet your mom either here in Florida or out in San Diego, California where she resides. September 17, of this year, she will be ninety-seven years old, a true testimony of good health, her character, her spiritual devotion and the wisdom, kindness, love and all the good things that you and your sister Nancy were instilled by your mother and father Charles, he should rest in peace along with yourself, my neighbor friend, and hero. There are certain traits that are developed within an individual, and Officer Cook you certainly lived your live and performed your duties a cut above most people. Today, you are admired by family, friends and colleagues from all over and the legacy that you left for all is one to truly remember. The love and goodwill you shared with those who knew you will always be valued. A good name and life that you lived cannot be replaced, nor can it be taken away. The memories of you will always be there for us to share.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

September 3, 2012

Arise, shine, for thy light is come and the glory of the Lord is risen over thee. For see! darkness covers the earth and gross darkness covers the people, but on thee gleams the Lord, His glory appears upon thee. Somehow, Officer Cook you and the twenty-thousand other officers, your colleagues who made the ultimate sacrifice as you did, tried to dispel the evil and darkness which exists in society today. As long as we keep our faith through prayer then I believe we can overcome the odds that seem stacked against us. Dedicated officers such as yourself obviously can only do so much even with all the training and preparation that prepares one for the rigors of the profession. I have visited your grave twice in the past week. I was in the area and wanted to stop and offer a prayer for you. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend, and hero. the art of remembering those brave officers like you should never be a way of the past. You continue to watch over us and we will do whatever to remember the good deeds and life that Officer William C. Cook lived and to the fullest.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

September 1, 2012

Officer Cook, when I said I did not think of your as a fighter, I meant someone who looked for trouble. God forbid I did not mean this. You fought to stay alive and to overcome the dire situation you faced. You did not ever give up. To this day, I maintain you and your comrades were ambushed by this evil person. You had to resort to using your firearm, and try and rescue the woman in the Chevrolet Nova and take into custody her boyfriend before this situation got worse. Rest in peace my neighbor, friend and hero. I always think of you in the sense in which your fought and stood up to face the evil in our society. You were a man of moral character, ethical at all times. You were not the kind of person, much less as an officer to pick a fight or get into trouble, as many officers get into today.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

August 28, 2012

Man was created for one purpose: to enjoy the goodness of God because He wants to shower us with His favors. Let us at all times lives our lives in such a way that we can fulfill this purpose of creation. let us live a way of life so that God will constantly reward us. May it be thy will, O God, that we may return to Thee in perfect penitence, so that we may not be ashamed to meet our fathers in the life to come. Unite oue hearts, O God, to fear Thy name: keep us far from what you hate: bring us near to what Thou loves: and deal mercifully with us for Thy name's sake. may it be Thy will, O God, that love and peace and brotherliness dwell among us! may our hopes of heaven be fulfilled! Grant that the good inclination may uphold us. Fill us with the desire to fear Thy name, and do Thou give us our soul's peace. Amen As you embarked in your law enforcement career, I'm sure your instructors embellished this point again and again to each of your fellow colleagues, the importance of being careful and seeing the big picture out there in the streets. The good and the evil, the light and the darkness. it's kind of like driving in the Everglades at night without your headlights on. Police officers serve a multiple purpose. They deal in every element of weather, work any and every shift, they can work around the clock during natural disasters. I understood that the week you were tragically taken, you were going to have your first weekend off to be with Karen and to enjoy being with each other. As I leave this reflection for you, we are in the midst of Tropical Storm Isaac. It's been seven years since South Florida has seen a storm or hurricane and my family and I hope and pray you family is fine and that your mother Mrs. Julia Cook is doing well in San Diego, along with your two nephews, Josh and Justin. Getting back to officers dealing with every kind of situation imaginable, you were exactly just that unique type of individual who was able to discern good from evil. You fought until your last breath, you fought the good fight, even though I don't like to think of you my neighbor, friend and hero as a fighter. For all of your training, that sad day of May 16, 1979 will always stand out when Officer William Cook stood front and center along with your partner, Reserve Officer Scott Lincoln, and Officers Keith DiGenova and Robert Edgerton to endeavor to dispel evil and saves the lives of Dade County and its citizens. You are a pride to us, your family and colleagues and should always be saluted for making the ultimate sacrifice to make us safe and secure forever. Rest in peace for now and keep watch over the light and goodness that this world has to offer. Your colleague Detective Donald Blocker came and dispelled the evil that took your life in a wanton, callous and brazen manner. He too should be remembered. Officer Cook, you lit the lamp, now it is up to us to keep those flames of your sacrifice burning eternally. You and Officer DiGenova worked together at one time and received commendations for the excellent police work you performed. This can never be forgotten. Once again, rest well my dear neighbor, friend and hero. God really does reward those who serve Him, and you served Him well, going out of your way to help those in need.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

August 26, 2012