As we come to the close of another year, it is a time of remembrance, reflection and inspiration. While we have many things to be concerned about in Law Enforcement, we should always remember that our career is the most highly trained, educated and professional as it has ever been in its history. It is truly a blessing to be in law enforcement today and despite your particular circumstances, we should all be thankful for the opportunity to give back to our respective communities. After all, we get to do every day what others merely get to watch on television.
2008 did not lack its share of tragedy but through tragedy and despair our profession is striving for improvement. While the leading cause of deaths to law enforcement remain vehicle related, 2008 marked fewer deaths than 2007 and more agencies than ever are committed to training their officers in the area of emergency vehicle operations.
I want to close 2008 remembering one fallen hero. Los Angeles County Deputy Randy Hamson was just one out of many to make the ultimate sacrifice in 2008. He joined the department in 1999 and worked out of the Santa Clarita Valley Station. On August 16, 2004, Deputy Hamson was struck by a vehicle while he was conducting a follow-up investigation for a traffic collision that had occurred earlier in the shift on Sierra Highway. Deputy Hamson was treated for significant head trauma and was eventually transferred to a long term care facility.
On October 24, 2008, Deputy Randy Hamson passed away. He left behind his parents, two brothers, three children and his wife. Randy’s wife, Cindy, said that all her husband wanted to do was to protect and serve the public. Like so many in 2008, Randy lost his life doing just that.
As we leave 2008 and enter 2009, let us remember our heroes like Los Angeles County Deputy Randy Hamson. Their sacrifice should serve as our motivation. Thank you for the opportunity you give me to speak to you each month and thank you for your service to your respective communities.
