Have you ever wondered why you save things? Probably not. A high school yearbook, a faded sweatshirt or, maybe, an old Polaroid snapshot can sometimes trigger what is commonly called "a memory". Well, I was rummaging through a box of old photos with no definite purpose in mind when I discovered a picture of a much younger REMA coordinator. He was about fifteen pounds lighter and had much more hair under that ESU baseball cap. There was a smile on a less than boyish face, probably entertaining an idea only he thought was funny. The setting was behind an REP with the two rear doors wide open. It was taken by a friend of his who has since gone on to his final assignment. The memory bank in my gray matter began conjuring up many pleasant recollections of our friendship and things we had done together. I never had a chance to tell him how much I enjoyed his company and the camaraderie we shared because he died suddenly at a much too young age. I’m sure he now knows how I felt.

    Our second annual Day of Remembrance was held on Saturday, April 30, 2005, despite the rainy, dismal weather. Over three hundred and twenty-five people came to honor the memories of those members of ESU that have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. The ceremony was held inside the Aviation Unit’s main hangar. The NYPD Ceremonial Unit choreographed the program in a highly professional fashion. Presentation of the Colors was followed by the reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance. A stirring rendition of the National Anthem was rendered by Sgt Carl Dixon, 84^th Precinct. Our own REMA Chaplain, Fr Robert Romano, conducted the invocation. Former ESU CO, REMA member Bob Baumert was called upon to speak and gave a very inspiring impromptu message. Our most helpful host, SOD CO Assistant Chief Charles Kammerdener, welcomed all and was most gracious in his comments. REMA member Al Baker (Ret Lt – ESU) read the roll call of the twenty-five members who lost their live in the line of duty since the unit’s beginning on April 10, 1930 - including the historical account of each incident. There was total silence during his most dignified presentation. The program concluded with a "minute of silence" and the playing of the bagpipes in honor and tribute to our fallen brethren by REMA member Tom McGuiness (Ret E 8, ESU).

    Families of the deceased and guests were treated to a helicopter exhibition following the completion of the inside ceremony. There were many PD equipment and vehicle displays outside, as well as, many vintage police vehicles shown. There were refreshments and beverages provided at the ESU training facility in Building 90. A good time was had by all and the main purpose of the day was accomplished. We remembered our own.

    I must thank the Police Commissioner of the City of New York, the honorable Raymond J. Kelly, for allowing us to utilize the facilities at Floyd Bennett Field and the numerous assets of SOD. My sincere thanks and appreciation go to SOD CO Assistant Chief Charles Kammerdener who was instrumental in putting this event together. Thanks go to Glenn Sokolowsky and his friends for their most welcomed participation. Thanks also go to Phil Sparacio of the NYC Parks Department for his unceasing support of our event. The chairs and games were a welcomed blessing. Bruno Seliste posted a report on his www.policeny.com web site for that I am most appreciative. Many others deserve thanks as well. I salute the men and women of the SOD family, especially those members of ESU, who went above and beyond to make this day a success. Thank you. I am indebted most of all to those people who took time out of their busy schedules to join together in helping us honor our fallen heroes.

    Next year’s date is April 29, 2006. Put it on your calendar now.

    Belated congratulations to REMA member Al (Ret E 3, E 10) and Jan Cochrane on the arrival of their first grandchild on February 09, 2005. Baby Eldon Lee Ballard weighed in at 8 lb, 10 oz and was 21 ½ inches. Mom, Laura, and Dad, Nicholas Ballard, live in San Rafael, CA. Welcome to grandparenthood, Al and Jan. It’s the greatest.........Congratulations on the birth of Nia DeNae to PO Dennis Lewis (101 Pct) and REMA member Det. Harriett Stevenson-Lewis (E 8, ESU) on March 08, 2005. The little bundle of joy is a definite blessing from the Lord ......... Linda McGuinness, wife of REMA member Tom McGuiness (Ret E 8, ESU) underwent cancer surgery on Friday, May 27, 2005 at an Albany Hospital. She returned home on June 01, 2005 to continue what I know will be a full and speedy recuperation.......... REMA member  Mike Latimer (Ret Lt-ESU) and his wife became grandparents to their tenth time on April 30, 2005 with the birth of a beautiful granddaughter. I’ll bet they were just as excited as with their first.........

    Mildred Leighs, wife of REMA member Ed Leighs, passed away on Wednesday, June 01, 2005. She had been battling a long time illness.........Kathleen Mallon, mother of REMA member Ed Rusch (Ret E 10), passed away on Monday, May 23, 2005. Ed's Mom was eighty-six years old and succumbed to a stroke. She had been in ill health for a long time..........Marie Roehrig, mother of REMA member Bill Roehrig (Ret E 3), passed away on Thursday, May 12, 2005 after a long bout with CHF/Emphysema and will be dearly missed. Please remember her and Bill’s family in your prayers..........USNR Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Jeffrey L. Wiener, brother-in-law of REMA member Sgt Franco Barberio (ESU - active), was killed in the line of duty in Iraq on May 07, 2005. He is survived by his wife, Mariateresa and two daughters, Mikayla Lynn and Theadora Rose. He gave his life so that we may remain free. May his soul and all those killed in defense of our great country rest in peace..........Joan Rooney, mother of REMA member Mike Rooney (Ret A-Team) passed away on Tuesday, April 26, 2005 after a long illness. Keep her and Mike's entire family in your prayers.........James Hand, father of REMA member Det. Richie Hand (E-10), passed away on Sunday, April 03, 2005. He was a great husband, father and grand-father. Keep him and Richie's entire family in your prayers.........REMA member Edwin Bird (Ret ESU) passed away suddenly on Friday, April 01, 2005. Ed was a true friend and a loyal REMA member. He will be dearly missed.  May he enjoy his heavenly reward.........Pray for all the deceased and their families and for those who gave their lives in defense of our country..........

    We have Five members undergoing treatment for serious illnesses and two things are requested, our prayers and anonymity. I have complied with both, now it's your turn.