As I stood with my hand over my heart watching a fallen hero be honored, I was humbled.
Most of us don’t think about what the men and women in blue do each day. How they put themselves at risk to protect us. Especially in the small towns here in the Pacific Northwest.
But even here, in small town America, tragedy can strike.
Cowlitz County Sheriffs Deputy, Justin Derosier was killed in the line of duty. He did so by responding to an average call of an abandoned vehicle. Nobody could’ve imagined it would be his last.
He left behind a grieving family and community. His child never knowing her father only having other people’s memories of him.
I was proud to witness his procession today. To see his comrades in full force to honor him and escort him one last time. To see the community come out with their flags of red, white and blue waving. To see so many grieve for this young man who was taken too early.
It reminded me of another, eerily similar tragedy that struck my small town just a few years ago.
Our chief of police was also killed in the line of duty. His family left behind and his young son with fewer memories than he deserved.
Our community came out in full force as well. His procession no smaller than the one today. Tears were shed, salutes issued and honor given. His legacy still lives on in our town.
I don’t understand why these two brave souls were taken when they were. But I know they were welcomed into heaven with open arms and the first words they heard were “Well done my good and faithful servant”
My family and I will always
Back the Blue!
My Journey’s My Own 
Thank you for honoring these men!
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Thank you for the comment. I feel quite strongly about those who protect and serve. I’m glad you enjoyed the article.
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