Candlelit Vigil Held in 45th Precinct for Fallen Detectives

20141229-_IGP9319The night of December 29th, a vigil was held for Detectives Ramos and Liu by the 45th Precinct Community Council , which includes Robert Bieder, Joseph Boiko, our own Annie Boller, Sonia Feliciano, Yvonne Smith-Burrus, and John Doyle.  

In the brisk night air, citizens hailing from the 45th and beyond shared moments of reflection and prayer over candlelight.

The vigil, one of many being held throughout the city, are in remembrance of the two police officers, who were fatally shot by a crazed gunman earlier this month.

The feelings of all can be summed up in the Poem ” A Part of America Died” as recited by Dan De Lara, a City Island Resident whose brother died on 9/11:

20141229-_IGP9324“A Part of America Died”
Somebody killed a policeman today,
and a part of America died.
A piece of our country he swore to protect,
will be buried with him at his side.

The suspect that shot him will stand up in court,
with counsel demanding his rights.
While a young widowed mother must work for her kids,
and spend many long, lonely nights.

The beat that he walked was a battle field too,
just as if he’d gone off to war.
Though the flag of our nation won’t fly at half mast,
to his name they will add a gold star.

Yes, somebody killed a policeman today,
in your town or mine.
While we slept in comfort behind our locked doors,
a cop put his life on the line.

Now his ghost walks a beat on a dark city street,
and he stands at each new rookie’s side.
He answered the call, of himself gave his all,
and a part of America died.

20141229-_IGP9329Bishop Nancy Rosario of Church of God’s Children led Joe Oddo of the Pelham Bay Taxpayers, Rev. Deborah Jenkins of the Faith at Work Church, Father Norton, and everyone in attendance with the singing of “Amazing Grace”.

Throughout the speakers’ comments, there was an overall call for peace in a time of heightened tensions. After the ceremony, all individuals were invited to place a flower in the memorial bouquet.

Bob Bieder, President of the 45th Precinct Council, said,”I am so proud to be part of the 45th precinct community council and the entire community. Their show of support for slain officers Ramos and Liu and the entire NYPD was truly moving. Joe Boiko, Annie Boller, John Doyle and Sonia Feliciano of the 45 Precinct Community Council put together this vigil in just a few short days. The community immediately reached out to help. Joe Oddo supplied the sound system, Jerome Florist supplied the flowers, Jim McQuade and the bank offered parking. Community members brought ribbons, and posters. Poems and song and prayer reflected the feelings of our community in a beautiful way and will help

“The shooting of Officers Liu and Ramos has shaken all communities…from our brothers and sisters in law enforcement, to City Hall, to individual communities like this in the Bronx that came out to show its support,” said Council Member Andy King (12th CD, Bronx), Co-chair of the Black, Latino and Asian Caucus of the NYC Council.

Now is the time for reflection, prayer, and unity in this community, and I will continue to encourage support for our police officers across the city.” said Councilman Jimmy Vacca. 

Public Advocate Tish James said; ” I was honored to come to the 45th Precinct in The Bronx to mourn Detectives Ramos and Liu and to show that in NYC we are all united in support of the NYPD and also in advocating for justice.”

Assemblyman Benedetto said: “The communiity came together tonight, now the City must do the same. I am so proud of the 82nd Assembly District.”

20141229-_IGP9347

Not that G-D needs a security detail, but if he has one, I am confident that Detectives Liu and Ramos are now part of it, with all police officers who gave their lives to protect the citizens of this nation.

 

 

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