...FOR THE SAKE OF OTHERS!

by Shawn J. Carmody
Phillipsburg (N.J.) Police Officer

The uniform we wear, the weapon we tote
In this selected job, we have not even a vote

We answer our calls, all fear put aside
Approaching the bad guy, with courage and pride

In a blink of an eye, a weapon is out
A bullet is fired before you can shout

The movements are slow; you feel no pain
Because of your courage, they will gain

A family in safety, because you were there
You put them first; swallowing your fear

You took a step and the bullet the same
You fall to the ground, calling HIS name

Your Brothers kneel, they tell you to rest
As they keep pressure on your gaping chest

They hold your hand, and look in your eye
They whisper softly, please don’t die

You take a breath, long and slow
They hold you tight; they won’t let go

Their tears are falling onto your face
Time is short; they try to race

In vain their efforts; your time has come
No shame in crying, some feel numb

Time heals wounds and memories drift
But we will always honor Brother Vandegrift.

In Memory Of

Kenneth "RED" Vandegrift
Phillipsburg Police Department
Phillipsburg, NJ
Date of Death: Nov. 30, 1930