"Shrouded Badges"

In Memoriam

Officer James Gilbert

Norfolk Virginia Police Department who was
shot and killed 9-28-2001 when he
responded to assist a suicidal subject. Officer
Gilbert leaves behind a wife and young child.


Badges of silver and stars of gold
Shrouded in black, a story is told

Early one morning when most people slept
A newly made widow quietly wept

A knock on the door, two people in blue
Told her the story that could not be true

Her husband, best friend, had given his life
Serving a stranger, a victim of strife

Handling a call, most think routine
A person disturbed, a typical scene

Helping a stranger, a cop gave his life
When a drunken young man wanted to take his own life

So in honor of him and his sacrifice
But also to show his grieving wife

Her love's death has meaning, He died not in vain
All of us to, will share in her pain

So we cover our badges and stand now in line
Forever, a promise, his memory will shine