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Good evening
to all who are
in attendance tonight.
I was asked to speak
for a few moments
about my experiences
with Dutch.
It was with great
humility and honor
I accepted that request,
for my love and respect
for Dutch
was immeasurable.
To the family and friends
of this remarkable
Law Enforcement Officer,
I wish to share
my condolences.
I realize there
is little I can say
to relieve
the sense of grief
you are experiencing.
But know this,
I am grieving also.
As his partner,
I knew Dutch
was solid and capable.
I seldom had to look
over my shoulder,
as Dutch did so for me.
Our bond was solid
and impenetrable.
We laughed together,
dined together,
sweat together,
cried together
and bled together.
There were moments
wherein I knew
his life was in grave,
grave danger,
and I shall say,
to this day,
I would have given
my life for him
in a second.
If only I had
that opportunity,
particularly
under these
circumstances.
He was
a mighty warrior
and fierce
when need be
as he patrolled
the streets,
side by side,
with me.
He was my
greatest protector
and partner.
He was also
filled with light
and passion,
often creating
laughter
in my soul.
He gave his life
while serving
the citizens
of this community.
While his death
was so very tragic,
he died
in a manner
which reflected
his great devotion
and willingness
to perform
to his fullest
and finest.
Dutch was
exceptional
in that way.
Truly exceptional.
Of course,
Dutch will be
missed by many,
but know his spirit
continues to protect
this city,
both night and day.
I hope,
as his friend
and comrade,
I was able
to contribute
a minute measure
of comfort
to each of you
in attendance.
Take care of yourselves,
and those you love.
As he took care of me.
A.C. Fernandez
Author Notes
This was written in honor of Dutch, A K-9 who
died tragically while in the line of duty.
While his death was not preventable, it was
truly a heartfelt loss, both to the Law
Enforcement community and the Citizens of
Rantoul, Illinois. He was and will continue to
be greatly missed.
© 2014 A.C. Fernandez. All rights reserved
About the Author
A.C. Fernandez is a prolific writer of numerus
poems and short stories. She recently garnered
attention in the literary community and is
being considered an "up and coming" author.
She is also a published photographer. Her
artwork is on display at the SARC on Sheppard
AFB in Wichita Falls, Texas, where she
resides. Due to her life experiences and
professional training, she pursues research in
the matters of sexual assault perpetrated
against all sexes, both female and male. She
assisted a Federal Law Enforcement Agency in an
effort to trap pedophiles who perpetrate
through internet venues. She attended a
training course at a Police Training Institute
to become more educated regarding the role of
the Law Enforcement officer vs. the citizens
and communities they are assigned to protect.
She is earning her degree in Criminal Justice
at this time (6/16/2014). She has worked as a
counselor, case manager, and psychiatric
nursing assistant. Her primary focus has been
convicted sex offenders and juveniles who were
not convicted, but placed in treatment
facilities. She is a committed and experienced
advocate for individuals who have been victims
of these crimes. She is also a member of a Red
Cross Disaster Assessment Team and has earned a
Presidential Pin in honor of having between
1,000 and 3,000 hours of volunteer service in a
one year period of time. Privacy and peace are
her primary needs, far greater than food,
clothing, and shelter.
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