Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

"The Badge"

He starts his shift each day
To respond to calls unknown.
He drives a marked patrol car.
A police officer he is known.

He's paid by the citizens' taxes
To make it safe on the streets.
But he usually has a second job
'Cause a waitress has his salary beat.

Now he doesn't know a holiday
'Cause he works all year round.
And when Thanksgiving and Christmas finally arrive
At his home he cannot be found.

He's cursed and assaulted often,
The one whos blood runs blue.
He seldom ever gets a thanks,
To some he's just a fool.

His friends are always other cops
'Cause people just don't understand
That underneath his badge and gun,
He's just another man.

He knows there might not be a tomorrow
In this world of drugs and crime.
And he gets so mad at the court system
'Cause the crooks don't get any time.

And each day when he leaves for work,
He prays to God above.
Please bring me home after my shift
So I can see the ones I love.

But tonight he stops a speeding car,
He's alone down this ole' highway.
It's just a little traffic infraction.
He does it everyday.

Well, he walks up to the driver's window,
And his badge is shining bright.
He asked the guy for a driver's license,
When a shot rang through the night.

Yes, the bullet hit its mark,
Striking the officer in the chest.
But the Department's budget didn't buy
Each officer a bullet-proof vest.

So he lay on the ground bleeding.
His blood wasn't blue - His blood was red.
And briefly he thought of his loved ones
'Cause in a moment the officer was dead.

In the news they told the story
Of how this officer had died.
And some who listened cared less,
But those who loved him cried.

Well, they buried him in uniform
With his badge pinned on his chest.
He even had his revolver,
He died doing his best.

Written By:
David L. Bell
Sergeant
Richland County Sheriff's Department
Columbia, South Carolina
Used with Special Permission of the Author
Copyright © 1999 - All Rights Reserved
and may not be duplicated without permission

Investigator David L Bell
Richland County Sheriff's Dept., Columbia, SC

December 31, 2007

I first came along the story about Officer W. George on CPD'S website. Upon reading it, I had a lump in my throat, god bless the family of Officer George!!!!

Cpl M Hudson
North Hampton P.D.

September 24, 2007

Well Cliff, it has been a long 20 years now since I last saw you, on the scene, that fateful night. I think of you often. My last sight & memory of you was after I had helped place you in the Rescue Unit and it drove off taking you to the hospital.

I understand that your daughter, Jen, has followed in your
footsteps & is now with CPD too. Now that is something to be Proud of, & I know you are! So, Rest in peace my friend!
We will meet again soon, Cliff, and walk a beat, on Heaven's street, together!!

Detective Ron Pruitt, (Ret.)
Cincinnati Police Division

June 18, 2007

Dad it has been over twenty years now since I last heard your voice or felt your arms around me with a big hug letting me know I was safe and loved. I keep that last hug goodbye with me everyday, you were such an amazing father and role model. I hope that you are proud of me as I am so very proud of you. Thank You for watching out over me on duty I know you have kept a watchful eye. I miss you more that words can say....Love your daughter (JenJen)

Police Officer Jennifer George Scully
CPD and daughter of Clifford George

May 15, 2007

MERRY CHRISTMAS.....

OFFICER JIM GILBERT
COLUMBUS PD

December 24, 2005

I know your daughter who has followed in your footsteps, First in my Department now she is in yours. Look over her and protect her through her tour of duty. and may you all ways protect the inocent through her. Rest in Peace

Deputy Frank Klar
Hamilton County Sheriff

September 4, 2004

06/10/04

Each day I try to read the ODMP. Today I read your story. Any officer who dies in the line of duty will always be remembered for his sacrifice. You died a hero. Rest in peace Officer George.

Captain Robert W Cannon, Ret.
Vermilion Co, Il. Sheriff's Dept.

June 10, 2004

Your death (scenario) is used as a training aide by CPD and I have attemnded such. 16 years later, tears still fill the eyes of strong men who were there that day. I listen to the tape and..... Thank you. Thank you for being a hero. Thank you for your service to our community. Thank you for being you. Never forgotten.

Deputy M. Moore
Warren County S.O. (OH)

October 19, 2003

Even though you have been away from us for over 16 years we still carry you in our hearts and minds and I know some day we will meet again....your nephew Brian

Cpl. Brian C. Shepherd
Hamilton County Sheriff's Office

Sir, thank you for protecting those who never knew you.