Saturday, May 23, 2009

13 Years Today

Every May 23rd I remember this tragic day. Those memories are always there. But I only allow them out to really feel them on May 23rd. Tonight as I was reflecting, I pulled out the old newspaper articles. I'd forgotten about this photo.A reporter snapped it of me in a moment that should have been private. Just as a sergeant told me two of my squad mates had been shot. My emotions overruled my training in that moment. Thirteen years have passed .... but seeing this photo made me feel like I was standing in that same spot hearing those words all over again.

The events of this day changed my life, changed the way I look at the world, changed me. I was so young and so new to the job. Maybe that's why no matter where I am or what's going on in my life, I always pause on May 23rd and remember.

10 comments:

4D said...

Such a sad anniversary...

Lindsay said...

I remember reading the tribute you wrote to your fallen brothers before. It has stayed with me and I find it comes frequently to my mind. I hope it helps you to know that they are thought of and remembered from many miles away, even by those who never knew them.

Robin said...

Such a sad, sad day in history. I always hate to hear when a service man or woman is injured in the line of duty. You are all there to protect us and some people just don't get that!

Thanks for everything you do Krista on job! (just incase you don't hear it very often)

Sandra said...

Such a sad day for you and all the other people who were involved...

Debbie said...

So glad you are here, so sad that they are not. Your tribute to them is very sweet and show you care a lot!!!

Wendy said...

((Hugs)) I can only begin to imagine what you were going through. It never really goes away though...maybe lessens with time. But that's been imprinted on your heart forever. It also makes you the police officer you are today.

kitchu said...

my heart goes out to you krista. and though that moment should have been private, maybe, there was a reason it was shared with so many- it captured the humanity of that moment- and showed us how deeply those who serve and protect us are affected by the tragedy of losing the ones who serve with them.

i'm so sorry the pain of the memory of that loss. what an honor to have worked with heroes. i am proud to know you and to see this picture here.

C's Mom said...

I'm sorry.

I think it is a very touching picture of you that captures the moment in a way mere words can't.

Anonymous said...

God bless you for your dedication to serve and protect.I pray your happy memories of your friend Jake will help to heal your pain.

k1 said...

Krista, God do I know how you felt, and feel! I've attended so many--too many--duty related deaths in the past 19 years with SPD.