Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Dave,
I happened upon this site while creating a bulletin for my Unit, which will include a section this month for Police Memorial Day. Although I'm in WI now I was drawn to IL to make certain you were appropriately listed and honored. I was in HS when you were murdered. I had spoken to you a few days before the tragedy. My Dad was a Sgt. w/ NCPD and I remember all to well that terrible day, when all available officers were called into duty. I also vividly recall the Funeral, and really realizing what a wonderful "family" I was born into. Not just the "Van Dien's" but the Law Enforcement Family. That's probably why my Brother went on Lake County and I find myself here in Racine. You have never been forgotten. Each day as I drive to work, I pass Carthage College, where you earned your BS, and I think of you. God Bless and keep you!

Comm.Supervisor Johnette Van Dien
Racine WI Emergency Services

April 27, 2005

Dave, I remember the day we all came to P.T.I and began as new cops. You and I should have been partners instead of new guys from different departments. We had a great time, and who would have known that it would end when it did. I saw your family at the funeral. We were both so new, I am not sure if I spoke to your family or stood in the sea of blue. Your's was the first police funeral I ever had the tragic need to attend. I will see you some day, and hope that this message is read by family. God bless you Dave.....................Russ

Anonymous