Today (well yesterday now) I attended two police officers' funerals. The first was for PO Alain Schaberger, NYPD. PO Schaberger was killed while attemping to arrest a domestic violence suspect. He was pushed down a flight of stairs and broke his neck. The turn out was astounding, estimated at 14,000. One of the only things the NYPD consistently does right is the Inspector's Funeral. It figures you have to die for the department to do right by you.

The next funeral, a couple of hours later, was for PO Geoffrey Breitkopf, Nassau County PD. PO Breitkopf was killed in a horrible case of friendly fire. At the scene of an officer involved shooting a MTA PD officer mistook PO Breitkopf for an armed suspect and shot him. Right now both departments seem on the brink of war with each other. I hope and pray cooler heads prevail and this doesn't become a new battle of the badges.

Anyway, the turnout was also incredible. A large number of the NYPD contingent made the NCPD funeral. I was also impressed by the showing from around the country and world. I saw officers from California, Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Connecticut. I also saw Canadian, British and Irish cops. Most likely they were in town for the St. Patrick's Day parade, but the fact that they took time out of their trip to attend the funerals was a very moving and much appreciated gesture. This really is a brotherhood, regardless of what patch is on your sleeve. Never forget that.

I'm sure a similar scene is going to repeat itself in Virginia very soon. My thoughts and prayers are with them. Things are getting crazy out there. Everyone, LEO and civilians alike, please watch yourself. The crazies are getting brave, take no chances and nothing for granted. Everyone stay safe and watch your six. Hopefully days like today will be few and far between.

Well said, MTS Cop. Having attended far too many line of duty funerals, I am sad they continue.

You, too, take extra care; and we appreciate your hard work and dedication.

Be safe.

May they rest in peace.
It's been a bad year for cops and it's only March, hopefully things will get better.
Stay safe.

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Don't kiss smiling dogs!

Very sad. When I was little, I used to worry every night when my dad went out on midnights. Thank God he always made it home safe, as did my brother years later. I wish the same for you every day.

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