In Memory of the Fallen

J.R. Holmsted

The media has spent a lot of time rehashing the scene, discussing logistics, and digging into the motives of the assailant in the attack on police last week in Dallas. As the process of laying the slain officers to rest begins, it seemed fitting to focus our attention on the actual victims of the tragedy.

Brent Thompson
Dallas Area Rapid Transit Officer, 43

Born and raised in Corsicana, TX, Thompson spent his life in service. He enlisted in the U.S. Marines and served his country. He then worked for a contracted security firm as an international police liaison officer where he led operations in the training and counseling of Iraqi and Afghani police. Thompson rose up through local law enforcement, becoming a DART officer seven years ago.

The first DART officer killed in the line of duty since the department’s inception, Thompson leaves behind his four daughters, two sons, and a wife he wed merely a month ago. At his service they spoke of his fun loving personality, devotion to his family, and respect for his job. He was laid to rest July 13, 2016.

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Patrick Zamarripa
Dallas Police Department, 32

Zamarripa was a veteran, a father, and an avid supporter of law enforcement across the nation. His short life was devoted to service. His time in the U.S. Navy sent him on three tours in Iraq and those that served with him describe him as focused and dependable. Yet he yearned to be closer to home, so he left the Navy and returned to Texas. He told friends and family that he wanted to serve his community and took the steps to become a member of the Dallas Police Department five years ago.

Zamarripa was one of the first names of the fallen officers released when his brother posted the news on Twitter. Pictures of him with family and friends have been circulated widely on social media this week. They have depicted his love for his children, partner, fellow officers, and now infamously, his favorite teams, the Texas Rangers and Dallas Cowboys. His services will be held July 16th.

Michael Krol
Dallas Police Department, 40

By all accounts, Krol wanted to serve as a police officer, but it took some time for him to realize his dream. He spent years as a correctional officer in his home state of Michigan and even time as a home healthcare worker. Finally Dallas answered his call and he was able to become the police officer he always wanted to be. He is survived by his longtime girlfriend, family, and friends who say was he living out the life and duty that called him. His mass will be held on July 15th before being laid to rest in Michigan.

Lorne Arhens
Dallas Police Department, 48

Arhens started his law enforcement career when he went to work for the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. A former semipro football player, Arhens wanted to be a part of something larger, according to his family. He wanted to help his community and eventually joined the Dallas Police force in 2002. His family and friends spoke of his service and character at services on July 13th.

Michael Smith
Dallas Police Department, 55

Smith was a private man that led by example. A former Army Ranger, he was a fixture in his church community as the security guard always standing watch. He kept his family of faith and his immediate family close and protected. He joined the Dallas Police Department in 1989 and through his devoted service he received the most honorable “Cops’ Cop” Award from the Dallas Police Association.

His family honors his most cherished accomplishment, that of his children and beloved wife. Services were held on July 13th.

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