Those We Honor - In the Line of Duty
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Fire Lieutenant Todd W. Krodle
Final Call: August 14, 2011
On Sunday, August 14, 2011, Dallas Fire Department Lt. Todd W. Krodle, answered his final call after courageously battling a three alarm apartment fire in west Dallas. Lt. Krodle’s career spanned for 17 years where he spent most of his career at Station 26 in Oak Cliff as a Fire Rescue Officer, Driver/Engineer and then a Lieutenant.
He was a 1988 graduate of Greenville High School and a 1992 graduate of East Texas State University (now Texas A&M Commerce), where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Agriculture Education and his teaching certificate. In 1993, Lt. Krodle attained one of his goals in life when he became a member of the Dallas Fire Department from Rookie Class 239. He was the consummate husband and father to his family and found his greatest joy in serving, caring for and giving to them. Lt. Krodle was faithful to his church and lived a life worthy of the sacrifice of Christ. In every aspect of his life it can be boldly said by those who witnessed his honorable ways, that his life was a life well lived.
Lt. Krodle leaves behind the greatest joys of his life – his loving wife Kelli, children Cade and Caroline, parents, brother, parents-in-law, sisters-in-law, brother-in-law, niece and nephew.
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Deputy Sheriff Clifton L. Taylor
End of Watch: April 23, 2011
Deputy Sheriff Clifton Taylor’s end of watch was on Saturday, April 23, 2011, after he and other deputies responded to a domestic disturbance near Venus that afternoon. Upon arriving at the scene, deputies began searching for the male subject. Deputy Sheriff Taylor was shot as he opened the door to a shed located near the property. He was genuinely a selfless young man, many times telling others “Let me go first, you all have kids.” This is indicative of Deputy Sheriff Taylor’s noble character.
His dreams and perseverance of working in law enforcement despite several setbacks, was made a reality when he was hired by the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, where he worked for three years until his untimely death. His first love was making people laugh with his witty and unique sense of humor. He was committed to starting a non-profit organization to assist child victims of violence as well as a Christmas bicycle program for these children.
Deputy Sheriff Taylor was a member of Shepherd’s Valley Cowboy Church. He is missed dearly and survived by his fiance, parents, brother and sister.
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Volunteer Firefighter Gregory M. Simmons
Final Call: April 15, 2011
Eastland Fire Department Volunteer Firefighter Greg Simmons answered his final call on Friday, April 15, 2011, while battling one of five wildfires in Eastland County. Although his efforts helped save the town of Gorman, Firefighter Simmons gave his life doing what he loved.
Firefighter Simmons was always willing to lend a helping hand and was a firefighter that accepted the oath, belief and life of one who serves his community. You could find Greg at the concession stand cooking for the band, at the Volunteer Fire Department’s fish fry, lending a hand with the town’s haunted house or serving as the "Oldest Water Boy in History" for the athletic teams and the Eastland High School Band. His unforgettable smile, cheerful laughter and warm hello’s will be fondly remembered. The lives of his brotherhood at the Sachse and Eastland Volunteer Fire Departments, his community, and most importantly his family, is changed forever. They will always miss the husband, father, and friend he was.
The legacy he leaves behind in his daughters Kateland and Karley Simmons is reflected in their special smile, contagious laughter, and the sparkle in their eyes.
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| Officer Kevin P. Marceau
End of Watch: January 14, 2011
On November 13, 1996, Dallas Police Officer Kevin P. Marceau, was working an off-duty law enforcement job near White Rock Lake when he observed a car accident whereas the driver was trying to flee the scene. Officer Marceau began to chase the driver when he was struck by a vehicle and was critically injured. He succumbed to complications of his injuries 14 years later, on January 14, 2011.
In early 1990, Officer Marceau made the decision to join the Dallas Police Department at the encouragement of his mother. He served honorably for four years in the United States Air Force where he also selflessly volunteered for the Gulf War. Officer Marceau had a strong work ethic and passion for living by the phrase "To Serve and Protect", as he did for the citizens of southeast Dallas. The community loved and respected Officer Marceau for his caring ways and his willingness to go beyond the call of duty. He had a true passion and great love for his son and family. He was an extremely dedicated and amazing father to his infant son.
Officer Marceau served with the Dallas Police Department for seven years. He is survived by his loving son, faithful parents, and four siblings.
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| Officer Jillian M. Smith
End of Watch: December 28, 2010
On Tuesday night, December 28, 2010, Officer Jillian M. Smith was fatally wounded after responding to an apartment for a report of a domestic dispute after the suspect had left the location. Officer Smith valiantly gave her life while placing herself between a child at the location and the suspect when he returned and began shooting.
Officer Smith was the youngest of two daughters and graduated from Juan Seguin High School in 2005, encompassing years of dedication to cheerleading. She continued her education at the University of Texas at Arlington, graduating cum laude with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice in 2009. Officer Smith fulfilled her life's aspiration of becoming a police officer on August 20, 2010, when she graduated from the Arlington Police Academy. One of her memorable comments made to her family was “she wanted to catch the bad guys.” While dedicated to her work, she treasured spending time with her family, friends and her special nephew. She accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior at an early age. Officer Smith had served with the Arlington Police Department for 10 months and had finished her field training 15 days prior to her death.
Officer Smith is survived by her loving parents, devoted sister and special nephew.
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| Officer Craig L. Shaw
End of Watch: June 20, 2010
Officer Shaw, a five-year veteran of the Lancaster Police Department, gave the ultimate sacrifice on Sunday, June 21, 2010 while protecting and defending the residents of Lancaster. Officer Shaw was a graduate of H. Grady Spruce High School and joined the Lancaster Police Department in January 2005. He previously worked for the City of Dallas Marshall's office in 2002. He represented the Lancaster Police Department on the Southern Regional Response Group (SRRG), a multi-jurisdictional emergency response tactical unit that operates throughout Dallas and Ellis Counties. Officer Shaw was nominated and awarded numerous awards including a Meritorious Conduct Award for exceptional service above and beyond the basic call of duty to the Lancaster community.
Most importantly, Officer Shaw was a family man. Officer Shaw was a husband, father, son, brother and friend. He was an outstanding man and officer. He is survived by his wife, two children, parents and extended family.
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| Officer Craig G. Story
End of Watch: January 13, 2010
Officer Craig G. Story, a seven-year veteran of the Arlington Police Department, died in the line of duty in a vehicle crash Wednesday, January 13, 2010. Officer Story, 34, was working as a motorcycle traffic officer at about 7:15 a.m. when his motorcycle and an Arlington school bus collided near the intersection of South Cooper Street and Inwood Drive.
Officer Story joined the 24th Academy Class of the Arlington Police Department in May 2002. He worked patrol in the North and East districts, and was nominated for East officer of the Year in 2005. During his seven years with the department, Officer Story received 19 commendations. He was also a member of our Tactical Unit and had joined the Traffic Unit last year.
Most importantly, Officer Story was a family man. He is survived by his wife and 2-year-old son. Please keep the Story family and his police family in your thoughts and prayers.
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| Firefighter Donald "Don" E. Hogg
Final Call: November 19, 2009
Donald "Don" Edward Hogg died Thursday, November 19, 2009, at a Mansfield care facility after an acute illness. He was 49 years old. Born in Dallas, Don was active at First Presbyterian Church Dallas during his youth. An Eagle Scout, Don attended Texas A&M University and was active with Campus Crusade for Christ. Don was a firefighter with the Arlington Fire Department since 1986. He received the Medal of Valor, was Firefighter of the Year, Rookie of the Year, recognized twice as a member of the Crew of the Year, and was the recipient of the Chief's Five Standards Award.
Don was instrumental in development of the HazMat Team in 1988, with which he served 21 years and was the last active founding member. He was also a member of the Bomb Squad and TechRescue Team. Don used his mechanical knowledge to develop many of the tools used by the department. He continually sought the difficult assignments and all who worked with him regard him as an outstanding firefighter and one of the hardest working men they knew.
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Sergeant Randy White
End of Watch: April 2, 2009
Sergeant Randy White was killed when his patrol car was struck from behind by a stolen vehicle being pursued by other officers on Texas 114 near Farm Road 2123.
The pursuit had started earlier in the day when a Wise County deputy attempted to stop the suspect following a hit-and-run accident. The suspect was able to evade officers, but was located a short time later in a stolen vehicle and another pursuit was initiated.
Sergeant White was clearing Texas 114 of traffic ahead of the pursuit and was parked on the shoulder when the suspect rammed the rear of his cruiser, pushing it into the back of a pickup truck hauling a trailer. The suspect was injured in the accident, and was charged with capital murder.
Sergeant White had served the Bridgeport Police Department for 5 years. He is survived by his wife and 5 year-old daughter.
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Senior Corporal Norman S. Smith
End of Watch: January 6, 2009
Senior Corporal Norman Smith was shot and killed as he attempted to serve an arrest warrant. Corporal Smith and several members of the Gang Unit went to a home on Wadsworth Drive in Dallas to service a arrest warrant for aggravated assault. When Corporal Smith knocked on the front door of the home, he was shot and killed. Members of the Dallas Police SWAT team were able to make entry into the apartment and arrest three suspects at the scene, including the suspect that shot Corporal Smith.
Corporal Smith had served with the Dallas Police Department for 18 years and was assigned to the Gang Unit. His murder occurred on the day before this 18th anniversary with the department. Corporal Smith is survived by his wife, who also serves with the Dallas Police Department, and two children.
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| Senior Corporal Victor A. Lozada, Sr.
End of Watch: February 22, 2008
On February 22, 2008, Senior Corporal Victor Lozada was killed in a motorcycle accident while providing a dignitary escort for a United States Senator who was a candidate for President. The motorcade was traveling on Houston Street when Corporal Lozada's motorcycle struck a curb and crashed. He was transported to Methodist Central Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.
Corporal Lozada had served with the Dallas Police Department for 19 years. He is survived by his wife, four children, mother and six siblings.
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| Officer Dayle Weston "Wes" Hardy
End of Watch: July 7, 2007
On Saturday, July 7, 2007, Officer Dayle Weston "Wes" Hardy was severely injured when his police motorcycle collided with a vehicle. Wes was transported to Baylor Hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries. Officer Hardy played football for Texas A&M, and then enrolled in the Academy at Tarrant County Junior College. He worked for Wise County Sheriff's Department as a dispatcher for the first year, then served as a Deputy for three years. In July 1998, he moved on to serve as an officer for the Plano Police Department for 9 years.
In his spare time, he enjoyed riding motorcycles, loved hunting, and spending time with his family. We also volunteered with the Howe Fire Department, served as their Captain, and Training Officer for seven years. He was a dedicated person with an infectious personality. Officer Wes Hardy is survived by his wife and twin daughters.
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| Game Warden Teyran "Ty" Patterson
End of Watch: May 30, 2007
On the morning of Wednesday, May 30, 2007, Game Warden Ty Patterson drowned in the Paluxy River when he and his partner, Danny Tuggle's boat capsized. While Ty struggled in the water, he was able to assist his partner to safety. Warden Patterson graduated from Texas State University and majored in Criminal Justice. In 2004, he was accepted into the 51st Texas Parks and Wildlife Game Warden Academy.
Ty stood 6' 2" tall and weighed 285 lbs., and although he looked intimidating, he was a very kind and caring person. Ty enjoyed playing basketball in the mornings and lifting weights. He was very close to his family and friends. Those who knew Ty will remember him for his closeness with his family, his loyalty to his loved ones and for his pure heart.
Warden Teyran "Ty" Patterson is survived by his parents, his sister, and his brothers.
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| Officer Andrew Esparza
End of Watch: April 13, 2007
On Friday, April 13, 2007, Officer Esparza was killed when he lost control of his patrol car in a rainstorm responding to assist another officer. "Drew" grew up in Burleson, TX and graduated college with a degree in Business. He graduated the Irving Police Academy in November 2005. Officer Esparza served the Irving Police Department for just under two years.
He loved to play poker, and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time with family and friends. He will be remembered for his passion for live. Officer Andrew Esparza is survived by his parents, his brothers, and his sister.
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| Senior Corporal Mark T. Nix
End of Watch: March 23, 2007
On Tuesday, March 23, 2007, Officer Mark Nix was shot and killed while attempting to apprehend a murder suspect. The suspect's car crashed after a short pursuit where the suspect opened fire on Officer Nix from inside the car. At 19, Mark joined the Navy then transferred over to the Army. He held a bachelor's degree in Philosophy, and in 2000, Officer Nix joined the Dallas Police Academy and served with the Dallas Police for 7 years.
Mark enjoyed spending time wit his friends, bike riding, and loved paint ball. Senior Corporal Nix is survived by his parents and his younger sister.
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| Officer Jeannette McCabe
End of Watch: January 14, 2007
On Sunday, January 14, 2007, Officer Jeanette McCabe passed away after suffering from a brain aneurysm a few days prior. She was teaching her class at Love Field when it occurred. Jeannette had a bachelor's degree in Governmental Studies and in 1990 attended the Police Academy for Dallas. Officer McCabe serve 16 years with the Dallas Police Department.
In her spare time, she enjoyed gardening and was very strong in her faith. She lived life to the fullest. Officer Jeanette McCabe is survived by her husband, two sons, five grandchildren and her parents.
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| Officer Dwayne Freeto
End of Watch: December 17, 2006
On Sunday, December 17, 2006, Officer Freeto was killed when his patrol car was hit from behind while he was assisting a motorist with a flat tire. Freeto served as an officer of the Fort Worth Police Department for 9 months. Dwayne was a calm and understanding man who would never raise his voice or be quick to anger. He studied Criminal Justice in College, then joined the Army for four years assisting the infantry. He joined the Forth Worth Police Academy and graduated in March 2006. Officer Freeto is survived by his parents, his brother, his wife and their two daughters.
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Officer Henry (Hank) Nava Jr.
End of Watch: December 1, 2005
On Tuesday, November 29 th 2005 Officer Hank Nava was shot when he attempted to arrest a man on a warrant. Thursday, December 1 st, Officer Nava passed away at Harris Methodist Hospital. Nava was with Austin Park Police Department from 1988 – 1991. He relocated to Ft. Worth and joined their police academy September 1991, and graduated March 1992.
Hank was best described as one who gave with a generous and pure heart. And in Teresa’s eyes he had a smile that would light up a room. Nava is survived by his wife Teresa, daughter Kayleigh, and son, Justin.
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Officer Brian Jackson
End of Watch: November 13, 2005
In the early morning hours of November 13, 2005 Officer Brian Jackson responded to a domestic disturbance call and was shot and killed while pursuing the suspect on foot. Brian was born in Honolulu, Hawaii. He graduated with a Bachelors degree in Arts/Sociology from the University of Long Island, May 23, 1999. January, 2001 Jackson relocated to Dallas, joined the Academy and graduated August 2001.
Brian will be remembered for his fun-loving spirit and the gift to make people laugh. Officer Jackson is survived by his wife.
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Firefighter Rick Hosford
Final Call: September 1, 2005
Thursday, September 1, 2005 Rick Hosford was en route to work when an automobile crossed over the center lane, struck and killed him. Hosford had served with the Arlington Fire Department since 1983. Prior to joining the Fire Department he was a signal officer in the Army for five years and honorably discharged as a Captain in 1982.
July 19, 1951 Rick was born in Okeene , Oklahoma and raised in Texas where he met his wife Diann. They have four children; Tessa, who is going to nursing school and is married with a boy named Taylor . Matt, who is in the National Guard, Jacob, who is in college, and their youngest, Bevin
Rick also worked part-time at Huguley memorial medical center in guest services. He treasured spending time with his family. His children have many fond memories of their vacations together, from camping, to vacationing in the snowy mountains or the sunny beaches.
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Officer Sheldon Gordon
End of Watch: December 12, 2004
In the early morning hours of December 12, 2004, Officer Gordon was en route to report for the White Rok Marathon when he was struck and killed by an intoxiated driver traveling at an estimated 70 mph.
Born December 2, 1941 in Dallas, Sheldon Gordon had a driven desire to help others in his community as well as his Country. Not only was Sheldon a Reserve Police Officer for Dallas, but he was also an aviation technician for the Navy Reserves for 27 years. For nearly 35 years Sheldon showed continued dedication in volunteering his time as a reserve officer. When he wasn’t on duty as a reserve officer, he enjoyed his work in repairing electronics for a living.
He is survived by his daughter Michelle, and son Phil; along with his wife Theresa and their two beautiful young daughters, Jade, and Lacey; as well as Maureen, who was his wife for 25 years and a friend for 10 more.
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Officer Nathan Laurie
End of Watch: July 29, 2004
On Thursday, July 29 th, 2004 , Officer Laurie was killed in an automobile accident during a vehicle pursuit. Laurie had served with the River Oaks Police Department for two years and served one year with the Tarrant County Sheriffs Department prior to joining River Oaks Police Department.
Nathan always had a desire to fulfill the needs of others. He genuinely cared for people and their well - being. Nathan was not only an upstanding Officer in his Community but was a loving and caring Husband and Father. He was one who believed in strong family values and with the partnership he had with his Wife instilled these values in their Children.
Officer Laurie is survived by his wife Shirlene, sons, Nick, Brian, and daughter Katy.
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Sergeant Gregory L. Hunter
End of Watch: June 18, 2004
On Friday, June 18th, 2004 Sgt. Hunter was shot and killed by an armed man in a Van parked at Wal-Mart on Interstate 20. Sgt. Hunter was the first black police officer hired by the City of Grand Prairie to be commissioned by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement, and served with Grand Prairie for 29 years.
Sgt. Hunter earned many awards during his tenure with the Grand Prairie Police Department, including 1973 Rookie of the Year, 1979 City of Grand Prairie Employee of the Year, Police Officer of the Month on multiple occasions, in 1986 Outstanding Police Officer of the year. Hunter believed that his work was not just a job, but also an honorable calling. Sgt. Hunter worked in Field Operation, CID, Special Investigations /Narcotics, Tarrant County Task Force, and Personnel and Training. He mentored many officers, rookies, and civilian employees.
He is survived by his loving and faithful wife and daughter, Denise and Erin, mother, sister, aunt, brother-in-law and many cousins.
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Officer Darren G. Medlin
End of Watch: June 12, 2004
Saturday, June 12th, 2004 Officer Medlin was struck and killed by an automobile being operated by an intoxicated driver. Medlin served with the Grapevine Police Department for 4 years. Prior to joining the Grapevine Police Department, he served as game warden with the Texas Department of Parks and Wildlife for 4 years.
Officer Darren Glen Medlin was born in Lubbock , Texas on August 14, 1969 . Darren and his wife Gina were together for thirteen years and married in 1997. Prior to joining the Academy he was an active Marine for 4 years and served in Desert Storm for eight months. In 1994 he graduated with honors from Texas A & M University in Corpus Christi with a B.S. Degree in Criminal Justice.
His Wife Gina, two children, Sarah, Laura, and two stepchildren, Crystal, and Bobby, survives Officer Medlin.
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