Funeral Coverage
A properly sober event, honoring the life of a gentleman:
The procession was impressive as always; the professionalism of the Honor Guard inspirational; the pipe and drum band amazing; the uniforms from every suburban, state, out-of-state and international police force a comfort to all the mourners.
The speeches by the politicians were standard run-of-the-mill fare, but daughter Amanda Kmic's speech was the most heartrending of all. Although not Officer Francis' biological daughter, Amanda declared Rick her father and told a number of heartwarming and humorous anecdotes that brought tears to the eyes of mourners throughout the church and surrounding neighborhood. We should all be remembered so fondly.
The speeches by the politicians were standard run-of-the-mill fare, but daughter Amanda Kmic's speech was the most heartrending of all. Although not Officer Francis' biological daughter, Amanda declared Rick her father and told a number of heartwarming and humorous anecdotes that brought tears to the eyes of mourners throughout the church and surrounding neighborhood. We should all be remembered so fondly.
Labels: officer down
posted by SCC at 12:33 AM
89 Comments:
Anonymous said...
Prayers and thoughts with Officer Francis' family, friends and partners (current and former).
My heart goes out to the daughter whose birthday is now tainted with this memory. The fact that Mary Mitchell is praising Officer Franicis is INTERESTING but very nice and the Sun-Times article was excellent!
Northsides' input on 10-99 is a great lesson for us all about STICKING TOGETHER!
Morale has been shattered but things like the killing of a policeman puts our own individual problems and pains on the back burner and even makes things like the day in and out "drama" of this job seem TRIVIAL!
Officer Francis' death should be an example to everyone, the Officers, the Media, the Public, and the families. An example of the stress, the duties, the hazards and the inhumanity any Officer may encounter.
Stress, duty, hazards and the inhumanity are usually the some of the main outcries we have. Some if not all of these outcries are the reasons what we demand reasonable compensation for and are why we direct them toward the department, the Mayor, our Superintendent, the Aldermen or anyone that will listen when we speak.
These outcries are usually for the request of extra tools for our safety or reinforcements in manpower and even financial compensation to keep us financially stable in a society where the cost of living is rising and as we juggle a family full of financial and everyday stress we can feel our worth from the respect the City can show us! These things WE as a department and a Fraternal body feel are due to a highly touted and respected department.
Proactive work has been minimul as of late due to the unfriendly media and mistakes of some but the fear of punishment has crippled the departments usual results.
Although the response is still there as the emergencies ring out on the zones, there is still an apprhensive approach to all we do collectively on the streets today.
This is a main reason why we are in need of fulfilling some of these outcries we have to update ourselves and compensate ourselves.
So, before we head off to work in a department and City full of more stress, as did Officer Francis on his last watch, we may all continue to feel the the City does not care about its Police Department but we all still show up for duty as did Rick.
We owe it to ourselves, our families and friends and the memories all the fallen officers to continue to do our jobs.
Officer Francis was doing his and I know the majority of us out here are still doing what we can to make a difference though we have never been tainted so bad recently as I have ever seen.
There is no reason to constantly place blame or fault at every instance we hear or see or read about. The truth is LIFE happens and its not always perfect.
I believe time heals all things and as days pass we will eventually come to grips with this terrible episode that happend in 019.
I believe we all will go on and continue to do our jobs and always think about Rick and the others we have known that have passed we remebered in our careers while in execution of their duty on this job.
God bless us all, current, retired and departed brothers and sisters.
and anyone that reads this and cares about their safety and the good of mankind in the City.
-Veteran Officer (3 bars on the sleeve)
7/04/2008 02:56:00 AM
++++++++++
Thought it was worth repeating this on the blog!!!
Stay safe ALL!
hats off to dropkicks murphys-irish rock band from boston -the departed soundtrack-- for dedicating fields of athenrye to officer francis at their 07jul concert at northerly island.
Great Coverage Finally!
I just hate that J-fed wears OUR uniform. He has no idea at all what we do to earn the right to wear that. Every time i see him in that i turn the channel and get so mad!! He is not one of us. He has not earned the right to wear OUR uniform. I can not respect a man that is that shallow and disregards all those years of sacrafice that go into putting on that uniform. How can he not see that? It's just not fair.
SCC, I wish you were just a memory already.
If mayor daley praised the men and Women of the Chicago Police Department at Our fallen brothers funeral mass as he did stating this is what they face ....
Then why cant we get a decent contract?
God bless officer Fancis and his family!
May God hold him in the palm of his hand.
May God Bless his family.
And, May God Bless the Chicago Police Department.
SCC It's a properly SOMBER event, not sober.
rest in piece, Rick.
I had the pleasure to work with Rick Francis as the 3rd guy on 1971 1st watch for a little while. I got to know him and care for him. He was a fantastic man. He had the biggest heart of any copper I have known since. Always willing to help, always willing to teach. His murder was a terrible tragedy.
Men & Women have dies wearing our uniform.
HEY LT FLINN denied coppers from attending the officers wake.Thats why moral is at a all time low,because of assholes like this.Commander RYAN did u approve of this.
I believe we all will go on and continue to do our jobs
You were doing ok until you keep repeating(continue to do our jobs) we never stopped doing our job we just will not be proactive. I will answer my calls. help my brothers and thats about it. I hope this was not a white shirt?
I just hate that J-fed wears OUR uniform. He has no idea at all what we do to earn the right to wear that.
Earlier I didn't care, yet after observing him in it yesterday. I agree. strange at best.
how can a LT OF POLICE DENIE from attending a fallen police officers wake. LT FLINN UR A ASSHOLE
Mumbles didn't shave or comb his hair. what a slob. nasty looking man.
I would like to thank all the officers who took the time away from their lives to give officer Francis a proper send off it was hearwarming to see so many from every end of the city, south and north. Though I will say that it was quite upseting to hear J-Fed's monotone, droning speech. Even the clips on the news I feel made him look as if reading from a script and completely disinterested in being there. Daley was as usual a stuttering fool but at least he showed some emotion. But the chaplain said it best officer Francis did not die in the line of duty, his life was not given or taken, HE WAS MURDERED. We shouldn't have to say more than that...God Bless us all and stay safe
I agree the assists have been overwelming lately, even know the proactive police work is dead. If any good, any good at all can come from such a tragedy hopefully its that we stick together and back each other up against the completely evil creatures that walk on two legs, and have the backing of the media and politicians, on these streets.
With all the politicians that were at the funeral from our state i applaud them for showing support, to their state and a great man serving it.
To Barack Obama who was here in Chicago and didnt feel it was right to show support to the police for fear of losing ghetto votes and liberal police hater votes, GO GET F^cked!!
To the jagoff that can't stand to see J-Fed in our uniform...
Get over it! There are more important things to worry about. If this stresses you out I hate to see how you react in a real stressful situation. Don't worry about things you have no control over. Worry about yourself, you family and ending your career so that you can enjoy retirement for a long time. Take care and be safe...
I just hate that J-fed wears OUR uniform. He has no idea at all what we do to earn the right to wear that. Every time i see him in that i turn the channel and get so mad!! He is not one of us. He has not earned the right to wear OUR uniform. I can not respect a man that is that shallow and disregards all those years of sacrafice that go into putting on that uniform. How can he not see that? It's just not fair.
__________________________
This is about the Funeral coverage, yet someone has to start complaining about nonsense. Whether you like it or not he's our boss, so get over it. I've been through 4 Superintendents, you are not going to see eye to eye with all your bosses. So what that he wears the uniform, he only wears it for big events, otherwise he wears a suit.
Lets think about Officer Francis, and his family. stop the complaining and unite. Life is short to be mad over trivial things. I bleed blue. I did not know officer Francis, but I cried at his funeral, I wish I had known him and worked with him. God bless Officer Francis and his family. His daughter Amanda's words really touched me. It sounds as though those three ladies that came into his life fullfilled his life to the maximum.
back one another up. when you see another copper on s top even though he or she may be from another district or even jurisdiction ,stop and ask them if they are ok, hang out til they are done writing that traffic ticket.
we on the street are all we have. we have to take care of one another and cover each others back.
we have a job that few want nowadays and alot are quick to criticize. but we who go out everyday with pride and convction on doing the right thing day in and day out without even thinking about it are the backbone of our department and every department out there.
I am proud to be a chicago police officer and to put on the uniform everyday. I am proud to stand next to my brothers and sisters in law enforcement.
Take care of one another and be there for one another.
I hope and pray that we will not have to bury another one of our family members for a very long time.
May Officer Francis rest in peace and may his family stay strong.
Take care of one another and always cover each others back.
God Bless All of Us
CITY RESIDENTS; DO A GOOD TURN FOR PUBLIC SAFETY!!!
SCC,
I am a former CPD Officer who has built a wonderful life upon the foundation CPD helped build for me almost 2 decades ago. I still live in the city by choice, and love Chicago, even with its drawbacks.
It saddens me to see what is happening to the Members of the Department. In some recent conversations with current Members it is obvious that morale is low and that a lot of Personnel feel unappreciated.
Although I cannot do much to increase your pay or accelerate the process of your contract negotiations; I can do something to let you know how much I appreciate what you all do.
On Sunday I was having breakfast with my Wife in 023 and saw a couple of Beat Officers enter the establishment. Before leaving I made sure to buy their meal, anonymously of course. I just wanted them to know that they were appreciated.
From now on I will make it my business to thank the Personnel who serve this city. I challenge every Chicago Resident who cares to do the same. We owe the safety of neighborhoods and our lives to the Men and Women of the CPD and CFD.
City Residents, the next time you see the Police or Fire Department in your travels wave, say thanks, pick up a meal, or do whatever you can. Pass it on also, tell your friends to do the same; show the Members of the Chicago Public Safety Community and the City Administration as well how important these Officers and Firefighters are.
SCC, I am posting this because I know a lot of civilians/citizens read your blogs. I hope this becomes the start of something. I also wanted to say that I really appreciated the FD Ladder Companies at the funeral for Officer Francis. I knew him personally and thought the arch with the US Flag was a fitting tribute.
Thanks for being there & God Bless the Guardians of this City.
A Proud Chicago Resident
just a quick story on the brotherhood of the police. i stopped out the night before p.o. francis' funeral for a quick and responsible beverage after work at a northside establishment. it was there that i was told that four p.o.'s from a city in minnesota were there. they had made the trip to chicago to mourn the loss of a fellow policeman. introductions were made, handshakes exchanged, and a couple of cold ones shared. they said that "we are here for you guys because we know that if one of our own was lost, chicago pd would be there for us." no more of a true statement could be made. everyone made their way home knowing that in the morning we would face the tough task of saying goodbye to an officer who paid the ultimate price. hundreds stood at attention with saddened hearts as officer francis' was laid to rest. following the mass, i ran into the p.o's from minnesota again. after handshakes and thank you's were exchanged again, they offered a small token of brotherhood; uniform patches from their department. it is in small acts of kindness like this that we are reminded that the family of law enforcement extends far beyond city, county, and state limits. may god bless the souls of p.o francis and all the others who have made the ultimate sacrifice and may he keep a watchful eye on those of us here who carry on.
God bless Officer Francis' family..
I was in the church for the mass, Father Nagels' Homliy put tears in my eyes, too bad that a few Exempt was too busy yawing and sleeping during it, and I witnessed it. Dep. Sup. Jakson out like a light during the Homily, un-fu*&ing real.
I WANT TO PERSONALY THANK FATHER NAGLE FOR HIS INCREDIBLY MOVING HOMILY AND SERVICE. IT MEANT SO MUCH TO HEAR SOMEONE WHO REALLY UNDERSTANDS THIS JOB AND WHAT WE GO THROUGH ON A DAILY BASIS. HIS CANDID REMARKS REGARDING THE MEDIA, POLITICIANS, AND THE MOSTLY UNGRATEFUL PUBLIC WERE SPOT ON. WHEN YOU THINK ABOUT THE ULIMATE SACRIFICE THAT OFFICER FRANCIS AND HIS FAMILY HAVE MADE, ITS HARD TO BELIEVE THE WAY MEMBERS OF THIS DEPARTMENT ARE TREATED BY THIS CITY. FATHER NAGLE GRACEFULLY EXPRESSED THOSE FEELINGS WITHOUT CANDOR, AND IN THESE TIMES THAT IS A RARITY.
I WOULD ALSO LIKE TO RESPECTFULLY THANK THE OUTSIDE AGENCIES, THE CHICAGO FIRE DEPT,THE MOUNTED PATROL, MOTORCYCLE DETAIL,CPD RECRUITS, THE MOTORCYLCE CLUBS, PIPES, PAUL BEARERS, FLAG CORP, AND ALL THOSE INVOLVED IN THE PLANNING OF THESE CEREMONIES. AND LASTLY ... THE CITIZENS OF THIS CITY, THOUGH FEW, WHO ACTUALLY TOOK TIME OUT OF THEIR LIVES TO LINE THE STREETS AND HONOR A MAN, WHO EVERY DAY PUT HIS LIFE ON THE LINE FOR YOU AND TRAGICALLY PAID THE ULTIMATE PRICE.
AS A GREAT GENERAL ONCE SAID...
"DUTY IS OURS, CONSEQUENCES ARE GODS'."
OFFICER FRANCIS;YOU FULFILLED YOUR DUTY, THE WATCH IS OVER, NOW YOU MAY REST IN THE HANDS OF GOD.
What a ass hole LT FLINN from the 001st dist,denied pos from a coppers wake.U should get dumped u asshole,
I took my kids to see Officer Francis' funeral. I felt it was important for them to see how many men and women risk their lives so we may live safely and comfortably. Thank you, all. Your sacrifices and commitment do not go unnoticed by us civilians.
It was a great turnout...thanks to CFD for hanging the American flag over Foster Ave, it looked awesome!
As a former military man, what bothered me was the rifle salute. For a fallen hero it is supposed to be a 21 gun salute. However, there were only 6 riflemen, therefor and 18 gun salute. The rifle honor guard said they were short 1 rifle so they had only 6 people instead of 7. I kow some of you may think this is petty, but can't the dept. get atleast an honors funeral 100% correct?
RIP, Rick, you're in our souls.
umm...have some respect and save the bitching and moaning for another post...
take a moment to honor a man who gave his life wearing YOUR uniform
WHAT IS WRONG WITH MAYOR DALEY?
NEWS HEADLINE:
Daley: Cops were powerless to stop gang violence at Taste of Chicago, fireworks show.
Mayor Daley acknowledged today that there was a gang presence at this year's Taste of Chicago, but he insisted that Chicago Police officers were powerless to stop it.
___________________________
This ass of Mayor went on to say that many gang bangers come to the taste with family and friends and cause no harm.
This guy has lost his mind!
In the old days, you dressed like a banger, you threw gang signs, you got your ass kicked and locked up! And guess what, it worked! Not one gang banger while locked up committed any crimes against other citizens!
© www.shavedlongcock.blogspot.com
SCC, I wish you were just a memory already.
Stop reading then asshat.
SCC It's a properly SOMBER event, not sober.
SOBER: Serious or subdued in demeanor, habit, appearance, or color; solemn; grave; sedate.
We think we got it right. Somber would also have been apropos, so we're arguing semantics. Not a big deal.
a piece of each one of us, died with you on that day. rest in peace my brother, the tough part begins now, and thats letting you go. your life and duty set the example that no matter what, life is great, and that we shoould strive to be the police officer that you were. a lot of us have forgotten that.
As I recall, Father Nangle requested that everyone listening to his homily close their eyes.
I closed mine for a few, as he requested. Don't be so quick to judge JJ claiming he was asleep.
I sat right across from him and never saw him sleeping. I'm grateful that so many took the time to pay prope respect to a man who paid the ultimate price to do this job. Please, everyone, look out for each other, and wear your safety vests.
who is this LT FLINN..Some jind of drunk.why would he keep police officers from a pos wake.Hope he burns in hell
"SCC, I wish you were just a memory already.
7/08/2008 07:03:00 AM"
Spoken like a true machine hack.
Get over it! There are more important things to worry about. If this stresses you out I hate to see how you react in a real stressful situation. Don't worry about things you have no control over. Worry about yourself, you family and ending your career so that you can enjoy retirement for a long time. Take care and be safe...
7/08/2008 11:57:00 AM
We have no (real) control over our contract. I guess w/ your LOGIC we should take whatever the city gives us?! & not WORRY???!!!
You people who are whining that Obama did not come to the church. have lost your common sense.He is using his, as you must know that the church services are for the family. if Obama came it would be all about him. Give it a rest. use your coconut
If tears could build a stairway,
And memories were a lane.
I would walk right up to heaven,
To bring you home again.
No farewell words were spoken,
No time to say good-bye.
You were gone before I knew it,
And only God knows why.
My heart still aches in sadness,
And secret tears still flow.
What it meant to lose you,
No one will ever know.
You and angels around Gods happy throne.
I would have held you closer if I had known...
What a ass hole LT FLINN from the 001st dist,denied pos from a coppers wake.U should get dumped u asshole,
7/08/2008 02:39:00 PM
He was a complete jagoff a couple years ago when I worked in 001, I guess some people never change. Hell even our watch commander encouraged us to stop over there and I work in a pretty far south side district.
SCC, I wish you were just a memory already.
7/08/2008 07:03:00 AM
Why do you keep coming here if you dislike it so much? Putz.
Hey Guys-----It's NANGLE---
Father Tom Nangle. Our Chaplain.
And he has a mass every 2nd and 4th Sunday at 1100 hrs. at MercyHome on Jackson Blvd.
Try and make it. You'll like it.........
the mayor is know acknowledging and ACCEPTING gang bangers at the taste, you mayor have now unleashed unbridled gangs to cause havic on this city- they will be emboldened because YOU have acknowledged and excepted gang bangers as acceptable citizens that should be able to attend activities just like hard working tax paying citizens of this city. YOU have to be the retarded, just un-.fucking believable and the media just fucking goes along with this retard!
SCC, can you please address this topic for future reference. Many of the detectives attending the funeral were there in civilian dress, which is understandable if they were working or going to court, etc., but when you are not in uniform, and the order to present arms is called, you place your hand over your heart. You only salute if you are in uniform. I know it seems like a silly point, but we should do everything possible the right way when we send off one of our own!
As a former military man and present CPD SGT, (by score) I also am disgusted with J Fed wearing a CPD uniform. I get sick to my stomach thinking about years of commitment and dedication to wear a uniform and display a rank earned. He has not ever worked as a P.O.. He is the ultimate meritorious promotee through a handshake with Daley. I understand he is in charge of the department and that doesn't bother me. But it's disrespectful for him to wear the uniform. Imagine a president like Clinton wearing a uniform of a miltary branch and displaying a General's or Admiral's rank. No, The commander and cheif, while still in charge, wears a suit as he should. Look at the pictures in the hall at 35th street of the former Supers, the civilians like O.W. Wilson wore suits respecting our uniform.
J-FED, stop wearing it, and come out and say you wont as a jesture to us of good faith.
Is it possible to get a transcript of Father Nagle's speech at officer Francis' funeral??? Some of us couldn't hear so well outside and some just couldn't make it.
Thanks SCC
R.I.P. and God bless Officer Francis.
does anyone know the name of the songs the pipes and drums played before the procession entered the church? i know they played amazing grace, and the america, god bless america, star spangled banner medley as Officer Francis was brought out of the church. it was a moving song and id like to know the name of it if anyone knows.
great turnout yesterday. its sad that it takes an event like this to bring us all together and stop the in-fighting. God Bless Officer Francis, His Family, and Police Everywhere. Be Safe
I would like to say god bless P.O. Francis and His family. But I would like to say shame, shame, shame on all those Officers, who could have attended the funeral, and did not. We have to many P.O.s' that only think about them self's and no one els. At the end of the day, the only who cares about us, is our family's, freinds, and eachother. Every officer not working should have been there ! or have a dame good exuse way not.
It's a sad sad day when the city of chicago looses one of her finest, I am so sorry! may god bless him! and also all the cops pushing a beat car out there. please back each other and go home safe to your familes. That's all that counts at this point, The city of chicago is a total loss.
Don't let there be any more empty chairs at the dinning table during the hoildays!
A cop's pop, co parent of two on the job!
"To Barack Obama who was here in Chicago and didnt feel it was right to show support to the police for fear of losing ghetto votes and liberal police hater votes, GO GET F^cked!!
7/08/2008 11:43:00 AM"
Did you ever pause & think for a moment,that out of respect to the family he chose not to attend the funeral to prevent it from becoming a Media Circus ??
Lt Flynn from the 001 district is an asshat and has always been this way. When I retire he and I will have words.
Lt. Flynn from 001 third watch is as much a loser as he is a waste of oxygen...... . Anyone who works in 001 knows he is a complete moron who is not playing with a full deck of cards.
Its funny when you listen to zone 4 and you here the dipatchers. They freak out when they have to put in a bag log. Say this with me " who gives a sh*t" unreal! Oh yeah Lt Flynn is a ass! If I were his captain or commander I would have words with him, but chances are that won't happen.
To the blogger who spoke of the comraderie of outside agencies (Minnesota and others) attending and mourning along with CPD and CFD at Officer Francis's Funeral... This is truly an honorable and touching moment. The way it should be.
During Sept 11, 2001 "unfortunately" myself and many others went in to help. The "overwhelming" response we got from the citizens of NYC, as well as FDNY and NYPD was amazing. They were happy to see that the world had not forgotten them....... Truth be told, there were hundreds of other agencies there, (thousands in man power, showing up on their own time). And those officers and firefighters were overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support that other officers and firefighters, be it from out of state or "out of country" did for NYC.........
It is nice to know that the brotherhood of blue, is still alive and well within our ranks...
I am grateful to be amongst the ranks that went to the rescue and recovery at 9/11, and also to those that went during the funerals and aftermath. It is a time i will not forget. Principles before personalities. Everyone played a part to HELP and HEAL. To be a part of SERVICE. It is a beautiful thing amongst the saddest of tragedies as in Officer Francis's murder. His murder is heartbreaking, but the boys and girls in blue showed up in force, as they always do. To support the family, to support the thin blue line and most importantly to support the brotherhood they joined when they took the oath.
Rest well Rick, you are truly a hero.
does anyone know the name of the songs the pipes and drums played before the procession entered the church? i know they played amazing grace, and the america, god bless america, star spangled banner medley as Officer Francis was brought out of the church. it was a moving song and id like to know the name of it if anyone knows.
Balmoral
GOD BLESS YOU RICH AND FAMILY,GOD BLESS AND WATCH OVER ALL LAW ENFORCEMENT AND FIRE FIGHTERS THANK YOU TO ALL WHO CAME TO PAY YOUR RESPECTS IT WAS ONE OF THE HARDEST DAYS OF MY POLICE LIFE NOT CAREER BECAUSE POLICE WORK IS YOUR LIFE ONCE YOU JOIN.THANK YOU TO FR NANGLE FOR SAYING WHAT ALL OF US WERE THINKING ,THANK YOU SCC FOR THIS SPACE TO SPEAK MY THOUGHTS GOD BLESS .
Balmoral on the pipes.
Shame on Daley and The City for not allowing a better retirement after 20 years so those with family can enjoy life after giving thier all everyday. Shame on you K-Fed for questioning "where was Ofcr. Francis' backup? Spoken like a true non-policeman. They were there to try and "eliminate the threat" and return fire. They were closer than you will ever be!! Rest in peace P.O. Francis the City didn't deserve you!!!
God Bless you and Your Family!!
"does anyone know the name of the songs the pipes and drums played before the procession entered the church?"
The Tunes played by The Emerald Society Pipes& Drums CPD were,
Mist Covered Mountains& Going Home.
On a Historical Note, Mist Covered Mountains was performed by the US Air Force Pipe Band @ JFK's Funeral procession.
I just hate that J-fed wears OUR uniform. He has no idea at all what we do to earn the right to wear that. Every time i see him in that i turn the channel and get so mad!! He is not one of us. He has not earned the right to wear OUR uniform. I can not respect a man that is that shallow and disregards all those years of sacrafice that go into putting on that uniform. How can he not see that? It's just not fair.
7/08/2008 03:21:00 AM
I agree with you 100%. He should stick to his fed suit, but don't get angry or let if affect you, he's not respected to those that matter, the brothers and sisters in blue.
SCC, I wish you were just a memory already.
7/08/2008 07:03:00 AM
He could be ...it's simple don't come on here ..tool
I really loved that line about when the public need help they call the police...
And when the police need help they call the wagon!
It brings a tear to my eye just to think about everything that's happen to Officer Francis & the pain his family is feeling.
What a great feeling it must of been to roll around 019 in the middle of the night in the wagon!
RIP
PS - That bitch better die a painful death.
FLYNN = OUT!
"Did you ever pause & think for a moment,that out of respect to the family he chose not to attend the funeral to prevent it from becoming a Media Circus ??
7/08/2008 09:28:00 PM"
Those who hate rarely, if ever, "pause & think".
But it's an excellent, honest and sincere suggestion.
anonymous said...
does anyone know the name of the songs the pipes and drums played before the procession entered the church? i know they played amazing grace, and the america, god bless america, star spangled banner medley as Officer Francis was brought out of the church. it was a moving song and id like to know the name of it if anyone knows.
great turnout yesterday. its sad that it takes an event like this to bring us all together and stop the in-fighting. God Bless Officer Francis, His Family, and Police Everywhere. Be Safe
7/08/2008 08:47:00 PM
We played Balmoral
http://www.copsinkilts.com/CD/balmoral.wmv
Just a couple of quick thoughts...I work in 019. I knew Rick. I was not on the job in '86 when Richie Clark was killed in 019, nor was I on when FTO John Lyons was killed in '92. They were names from 019 that are held in high regard because they were killed in the line of duty...but I didn't know them. Rick was a friend. This one is different for me. I'm not gonna see him anymore and BS with him about hockey, baseball, or anything. When it's a P.O. that gets killed, we all feel it, but when it's in your district, it's 100 times worse. To see guys and gals from ALL OVER the city, and, in some cases, the suburbs, at the wake and funeral was really a special feeling. I saw people from those way-South districts. People from specialized units, tact guys from everywhere. Cook County Sheriffs, Lombard PD, Skokie PD, Hanover Park PD, all kinds of Chicago Fire Personnel. You know that the majority of the people there did not know Rick, but they came. As someone who did know him, it was overwhelming to see the support shown by everyone. One thing you have to say about the C.P.D., when it comes to something as tragic as this, we do it right. We were there for eachother. No "North Side/South Side" is better. No "Fast District/Slow District" stuff. No White/Black/Hispanic stuff. We were all Blue. Just like they told us in the academy. We were all Blue. We ALL felt Rick's death. We were all there for eachother. Unfortunately, Rick will not be the last person to have his life taken away. This tragedy will happen to another one of us. And, when it does, we will all be there for eachother again. Seeing all of the Police Personnel there, whether it was Chicago, Cook County, Suburban PD's, or, as I read in another post, guys from a Minnesota PD, it made me especially proud to be the Police. As a member of the 019 District, I would like to thank EVERYONE who was there for Rick, whether you knew him or not, 'cuz you were there for the members of 019, and me, as well.
Obama has always hated the Chicago Police,except when it could help out his play cousin by marriage,Deputy Superintendant Michael Shields.Obama is related to Shields;Shields is related to Michelle Obama.
I would like to say god bless P.O. Francis and His family. But I would like to say shame, shame, shame on all those Officers, who could have attended the funeral, and did not. We have to many P.O.s' that only think about them self's and no one els. At the end of the day, the only who cares about us, is our family's, freinds, and eachother. Every officer not working should have been there ! or have a dame good excuse why not.
This is what confuses me. This funeral was in the 016 district. The district where 5000 cops live. A 10 minutes drive from anywhere in the district yet there weren't close to 5000 there. While I am on the subject where was the 016th District? I saw one tact team working it. I saw one Sgt, one PO and one civilian working the hospitality area, and I saw ONE cop from 016 3rd watch. Where the hell was everyone else?
I have only missed one funeral in my time on the job. Because I was sick.
Where the heck was everyone? Don't they realize it could be them?
A good friend of mine from the Hall had this little piece of info for me yesterday.
The Chairman of the Committee on Finance Eddie Burke is livid over the remarks of Father Nangle at the funeral mass. He was "outraged" that Father Tom actually called out the politicians for what they are (fill in the blank -oh so many choices).
Just think he actually wore the uniform once. I guess he an Jody have something in common afterall. Both never earned the right - throw in Big Bill Beavers into the mix too.
anonymous said...
"To Barack Obama who was here in Chicago and didnt feel it was right to show support to the police for fear of losing ghetto votes and liberal police hater votes, GO GET F^cked!!
7/08/2008 11:43:00 AM"
I have no problem with Obama not coming, most police I work with have no respect for him and his entourage of Secret Service would have taken seats in the church from those who deserved them so it is good he stayed away.
There is a poll going on now in units by Unit Reps on who we would like the FOP to endorse for president. So far in my district it is running 20 to 1 against Obama. No one missed him or his wife. She isn't now and never has been proud of this country, be her own declaration, so she especially can stay the fuck away from police affairs.
SCC A properly SOMBER event, not sober. I wrote that. You're right on, SCC, I didn't read far enough down on Webster's definition. I'm a semantics asshat.
The commander and cheif, while still in charge, wears a suit as he should. Look at the pictures in the hall at 35th street of the former Supers, the civilians like O.W. Wilson wore suits respecting our uniform.
J-FED, stop wearing it, and come out and say you wont as a jesture to us of good faith.
_______
Sup JW, take the advise of of your rank and file...you are our superentendant , and not a police officer...thats ok...we understand that...it would be such a boost to your image and our perspective of you if you cound just say that - and stick with the suit and tie.... you want respect ... thats how you earn it ....
SCC A properly SOMBER event, not sober. I wrote that. You're right on, SCC, I didn't read far enough down on Webster's definition. I'm a semantics asshat.
Like we said, semantics. Not a big deal and certainly not big enough for wearing the dreaded headgear.
TO 7/08/2008 08:47:00 PM
RE: BAGPIPE TUNES
The ESCPD usually plays a selection of the following tunes at a funeral
Balmoral
Suo Gan
Based on the news coverage, I believe the tunes in question are a set comprised of
Mist Covered Mountains and Going Home
J-Fed was advised by several retired high ranking CPD personnel that he should not wear the uniform.
anonymous said...
A good friend of mine from the Hall had this little piece of info for me yesterday.
The Chairman of the Committee on Finance Eddie Burke is livid over the remarks of Father Nangle at the funeral mass. He was "outraged" that Father Tom actually called out the politicians for what they are (fill in the blank -oh so many choices).
Just think he actually wore the uniform once. I guess he an Jody have something in common afterall. Both never earned the right - throw in Big Bill Beavers into the mix too.
7/09/2008 06:24:00 AM
---
Did anyone else notice that Ed Burke was wearing a gold star around his neck on a police officers type chain? I didn't get a close look but I guess this was the aldercreature badge they award themselves. This was perhaps some sort of simpatico to the CPD badge he once wore.
He's very far away from his time as a police officer, he has become political slime and if he takes umbrage to Father Nangle's remarks then I applaud Father Nangle even more. An insult to a politician is OK with me, any time any place. Remember, I'd rather have a daughter in a whorehouse than a son in the City Council.
HEY
7/08/2008 03:21:00 AM
Who fucking cares if J-FED wears the uniform. Does it really stress u out that bad! Trust me there are many individuals on this dept who dont deserve to wear the uniform but they still do. I have 19 yrs on the dept and who gives a fuck just do your job honest and do the right thing. And wear your unifrom proud. Even as a U.S. MARINE there were devil dogs that didnt deserve to wear the uniform. People need to stop bitching about the stupid stuff.
Anonymous said...
anonymous said...
"To Barack Obama who was here in Chicago and didnt feel it was right to show support to the police for fear of losing ghetto votes and liberal police hater votes, GO GET F^cked!!
7/08/2008 11:43:00 AM"
------------------------
Barack Husein didnt, not come because he wanted to save the seats for real morners, he didnt come beacuse he is a communist that hates the police and his wife would puke if she had to be "fake sad" in front of the enemy, COPS.
You need to stop and think. Just because he is half black doesnt mean he cant be talked about, he is a politician he works for us. He;s black so that means we are racist if we dont like his socialist ways? You need to"pause and think"
Can you post a copy of Fr. Nangels eulogy?
Obama never had plans on going to Officer Francis funeral. Not important enough to go to. Nope, he didn't avoided it because of the media circus. He loves the media. The Mayor, Governor Rod, amongst others were there.
Obama didn't want to go. It's that simple. No political hay to make. I have to agree. He'd lose the black vote. Even Jesse Jackson got caught on FOX News with a hot mike last night. Jesse reportedly said Obama was "cutting off his nuts with black people' and guilty of 'talking down to black folks
". So Jesse has to apoligize... for saying the truth.
Obama needs the black vote. Obama can't go to the services. It would align him with Chicago police power. He's not going to show up to a CPD officer's funeral. Especially if he's a white officer. One needs only to look at his " former church " and his relationship with Father Pfleger who's as racist as they come towards many whites. Lok at what Pfleger said about Hillary.
To bad. Obama missed hundreds + officers who stood in formation to respect a fallen man, husband, father, brother, friend, and officer.
nor was I on when FTO John Lyons was killed in '92.
Johnnie Lyons did not receive a line of duty Funeral along with not receiving the additional benefits. the Dept refused a line of duty. However after the first deputy died at home of a heart condition John Thomas and Silva also died at home both families received Duty Funeral along with the other benefits due them, shortly after that time Cline placed Johnnie Lyons on the wall and retired his star. A shame how this dept treated Johnnie Lyons family. doesn't sit right with me to this day. all about clout even in death.
I have no problem with Obama not coming, most police I work with have no respect
You LITTLE man are a pussy punk. I'm not voting for him, but you have no respect writing BS.What the funk is the matter with you people . Did you want a Media circus???? PUNK ass fool
Anonymous said...
I have no problem with Obama not coming, most police I work with have no respect
You LITTLE man are a pussy punk. I'm not voting for him, but you have no respect writing BS.What the funk is the matter with you people . Did you want a Media circus???? PUNK ass fool
7/09/2008 11:32:00 PM
-----------------------
Huh?? What side are you on your public school education is bursting to show us, nothing.... Meida circus was there already, these dirt bags work for the people...sort of like the police, except we are taken by the people and placed into the ground. The ignorant race baiter Obama just didnt want to be there , period end of story. Maybe if it was at a Mosque he'd show up to kiss Mecca
"Meida circus was there already, these dirt bags work for the people...sort of like the police, except we are taken by the people and placed into the ground. The ignorant race baiter Obama just didnt want to be there , period end of story. Maybe if it was at a Mosque he'd show up to kiss Mecca
7/10/2008 12:10:00 PM"
OK Bill O'Reilly go leave another perverted message on some Jailbaits answering machine Pederast
7/10/2008 12:10:00 PM"
OK Bill O'Reilly go leave another perverted message on some Jailbaits answering machine Pederast
7/10/2008 06:26:00 PM
Okay Jesse, forget that the the camera was still on?
The Richard M. Francis Benefit Fund has been set up and anyone interested in donating can send their donations to
The Chicago Patrolmen's Credit Union
5310 N. Harlem Avenue
Chicago Il, 60656
TO: H. Silvia or the female sgt from the marine unit
You are a true jacka$$....They died in training accidents because of their job speciality at the time, while working... That makes it covered.. I agree about J. Thomas, bit of a stretch...
Also, correct me if I'm wrong the lock-up keeper (Richard Schott)that had a grabber while struggling with unruly prisoner, FULL HONORS FUNERAL as it should be...Look at odmp.org there are 10 people, all po's with heart attacks from the department
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