... for your terrible sacrifice, Belinda. Last year, 139 law enforcement officers made the same sacrifice, a fearful price to pay for safety in our communities. We should all be thankful to all of the officers who have died in the line of duty -- as well as their families.

I know the heartache never disappears completely. My younger brother, BT3 Lawrence J. Reilly, Jr., was killed in the service in 1969 (in the collision between the USS Frank E. Evans and the Australian aircraft carrier HMAS Melbourne). More than 30 years later, talking about the event still brings sadness and tears, especially for my Mom. Two years ago, a memorial to those lost on the Evans was created at Arlington National Cemetery. It does create a sense of pride knowing that my brother's name will be there long after I, in fact anyone who remembers him, will be gone.

What was your father's name, Belinda? I think it would be nice for the rest of us to know.

Sincerely ------ jim o\-S