We wish to send our griffs and hearts to the families and the other offiecer that was hurt. our prayers are with you all. It is a shame that this had to happen but they was serveing and protecting all of us.Rest in prace and be with the lord now my angels.

To my brothers and sisters at SSD, know that the pain of your loss is shared by many. To the families of Joseph and Kevin, thank you for sharing your sons with those of us in law enforcement and with the community they served. Draw strength from their fellow officers. The memories they have to share will bring you joy, laughter, and peace. Eric, may your road to recovery be swift.
Blessings to you all....
Deputy Lynne Carlton #47
Placer County Sheriff's Department

I´m from so far away, but this happening has touched my heart as a human beeing, it doesn´t matter wherever we live. we all just live in the same world.
God bless you and your families.

Words cannot express how much we owe to the men and women in uniform who risk their lives to protect us. It may be taken for granted at times, but Joe and Kevin, your work is much appreciated! It is a very sad time for us in the aviation community. Joe and Kevin, you are truly heroes and your memory will live on. May God be with you and your families. Our prayers are with you.

Sincerely,

Clark and Kim Cook

I would just like to say thank you to all the police in uniform, it's a thankless job sometimes but I really appreciate the sacrifices that are sometimes made. My condolences to the families of the fallen heroes and my thanks

My thoughts and prayers are with you all..they are still watching from up above...god bless

1912 hrs., 07-13-05 (wed); star 6 eow.

this was the saddest day of my lawenforcement career.

this day was also an overlap day for the k9 detail. almost all of the detail responded to this event. i have never in my life, seen such persistance and determination. everyone from every agency that responded, was there to ensure that joe, kevin and eric had every last bit of support and every last resource available to us out in the field, at their disposal during their time of need.

to all of my fellow deputies who never gave up and stood strong, to all of the fire personell that brought every trick in the book out, to the reach medi-flight crew who stood by us knowing we were hoping for a miracle, to all of the outside agencies that lent a hand in a time of need, and to all of the memebers of the k9 detail who demonstrated just exactly why they are on the detail, you all are my heroes. what a valiant effort. i can't thank you enough for the effort put forth to save these guys, my eyes in the sky, my partners, my freinds.

i personally saw the extrodinary effort put forth by everyone there to save joe, kevin and eric. nobody's job was any less significant or more important then the next. now that all is said and done, it is obvious that their fate had been decided long before we ever arrived on scene.

god bless everyone involved in and effected by this tragic event. eric, you have got to keep fighting bro.

I currently work for the Santa Clara Sheriff's Office and fly in our air unit. I met Kevin in July in San Diego, CA for a training class for air observers. For the short time I knew him, I could tell he is a great guy and a 10-8 Deputy. I sat next to Kevin and his partner(sorry can’t remember his name) at the class.

This crash has been very difficult for me to deal with. It has shown me that how fragile life can be and how we should live our lives to the fullest. I know all three of the deputies were doing what they love to do, fly. I know personally I get a rush when I'm orbiting around a hot call, it is very addictive. I know the dangers involved, but I also know that I can potentially save a fellow officer's life or even a citizen by being up above in the helicopter. I know I can speak for all air crews when I say that the benefits greatly outweigh the risks. My deepest sympathy goes out to all the family members of all the Deputies. I will be at the memorial service tomorrow to say my last goodbye to both of the Deputies. You will not be forgotten.

Eric Henrikson, I wish you a successful road to recovery and if allowed visitors, I will see you tomorrow as well.

Deputy Mark Deimling #1801
Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office
55 W. Younger Ave, San Jose, CA 95110
408-808-4400

I was very lucky to go on a ride along on star 5 and was quickly amazed at how amazing these officers are. I thank you for your awesome response time and for helping to keep our streets safe. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Shannon Wittmeyer
Sacramento County Probation Dept

As the son of Jon Brones, a member of Air Operations since its inception in 1978, I am all too aware of the significant sense of pride, brotherhood and camaraderie that can only be formed within an rotary wing aviation unit of law enforcement. I cannot imagine the loss that the families of Deputies Kievernagel and Blount face, but can only attest to the pain and anguish that my dad must endure. The loss of these two deputies transcends their respective families of blood and duty, and is most assuredly, a loss to our entire community.

The families of Deputies Kievernagel and Blount should be comforted in the knowledge that the last act of their fallen loved ones reflects the same selfless dedication and commitment to service that they espoused during their careers. The decision to avoid landing STAR VI in an area crowded with Sacramentans likely put their own lives at greater risk. This tremendous sacrifice represents the best ideals and finest traditions of the Sacramento County Sheriff's Department.

I pray that Joe and Kevin now find themselves flying the skies of heaven, and that Deputy Eric Henrickson makes a full and speedy return to patrol above our Sacramento skyline. God Bless Joe, Kevin, Eric, and the entire Air Operations unit.

So sorry for your loss.Iris, you are always in my thoughts and prayers. I always remember the glow in your eyes when you we're still working w/ us in davis 8, about how everything worked out fine w/ you and your husband joe's work schedule.May your memories comfort you.

Thank you all for your service and dedication to keeping us safe and protected. Hearts go out to all of you that have been touched by the loss of these two fine officers. Prayers of healing are with their fellow officer.

To Eric Henrikson, Joseph Kievernagel, Kevin Blount, and their families, our hearts and prayers go out to you.

Horst H. Ballou and
Claudia B. Harmon/Nowicki/Ballou ex-wife
of retired police officer Mike Nowicki of Monterey, CA, now retired in Reno/Sparks, NV, and
mother of Roseville police officer Chris M. Nowicki (K-9 Unit). :-(

My condolenses to the family & friends of the fallen officers. As a Security Officer, I work with Sac County Deputies, along with other Depatments in the Law Enforcement Community. I feel as if all Law Enforcement Agencies are "family", & I grieve with all of you. Bryan Penney

I am very sorry for your loses.

I did not know these men personally, but would hear the voices from the PA System as they circled overhead while looking for lost children or suspects where I live. So, in a sense you feel like you do know them.

My prayers are with all of the other Deputies who must go on without them. Know that they watch over you still, just from a little higher up.

Blessings,
Caryn MacKay-O'Brien

I have been friends with Kevin Blount since 1990. We met at Del Campo High School and quickly became close friends. I remember when Kevin first realized that he wanted to be a police officer and how excited he was. We used to go to Walt's restaurant off Fulton/ El Camino just so Kevin could try and talk to some of the deputies that would come in and eat dinner. Kevin was probably the bravest person that I have ever known. He was the only friend that I have ever had that never judged me for anything that I did. I considered him a brother and will never forget the friendship that he shared with me and my family. He was always smiling and joking. He was the kind of person that everyone wanted to be around. I will never forget you Kevin.

I just read about fifty messages, but I have to stop. I can't see through my tears. As the Sergeant of Air Support and a friend of Kevin of Joe, I have to say that these remembrances are so valuable to me. Thanks to everyone who has posted. I will write more when I am able, but for now, THANK YOU! Please keep Eric in your prayers!!!

Our extended family in the Cordova area are 16 in number. We have been kept safe by the efforts of these brave men and all the deputies. They gave their all for our safety and we thank them and their families from the bottom of our hearts. They knew, like all officers, the work would be dangerous and they proceded anyway. Greater love hath no man. We pray for them and their families.
Howard Williams and Family

Our hearts and prayers go out to all the famlies that have lost loved ones of those who make a career of protecting us from the evils that are out there.

God Bless

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May God bless you and keep you and your fallen brothers. May he offer support to your department and your families. We all feel your loss. God Bless.

Matt
Medic Ambulance Service
Solano County

May the angels hold you and comfort you in this time of loss. It is so quiet now without STAR patrolling the skies, and the silence is almost unbearable. No words can really express the way that this loss has affected the community, nor can they really ease your pain, but know that we are all thinking of you and sending prayers that Eric will recover. You are all our heroes.

It's far too quiet in the sky. Even when your helicopter woke me up at night I felt better knowing you were there
Thanks to the entire department for your continued service.

To the families of our fallen officers. May you have the strength to get through this terrible tragedy. I know that God is with you and your children. May the Lord bless our officers and put a hedge of protection around each one of them!

I can't express enough how good it felt to hear that whine growing louder from a distance. You two were always there when we needed you most. You will be missed greatly, but I know both of you will still be watching over all of us on the ground. My prayers to you and your loved ones.

May God be with you in your time of need. You are in our prayers!!

God Bless the sheriffs department and the families of the lost ones. Losing someone is always hard, especially when it is a tradgic loss. HANG IN THERE!!

Sad any law enforcement to die in the line of duty; my heartfelt condolences to the families of these officers..Retired Sacramento County Deputy Sheriff.

It's with incredibly sad heart that I say good-bye to Kevin Blount and his partner. I graduated from the Sheriffs Department Academy in 1996 with Kevin. He was a fine officer, and he even showed up to a traffic accident when I got hit by a drunk driver. I wish I could say that I was there for him in his time of need..but I can't. I saw the officers respond..saw the other chopper respond..and had no idea what had happened. God speed Kevin, God speed Joseph Kievernagel, may the angels watch over our friend Eric Henrikson. Courage-Strength-Pride! B Sly

I was very fortunate to do a ride along on Star 5 and realized the dangers that are put on these couragous persons that are called abond every day to protect and secure our protection. Donna and I wish to express our deepest thoughts and prayers to the families and department at this time of great tragedy.

our prayers are with you all.
we are so sad for your lost. you guys have always responded with respect and caring to meet our needs and we thank you.
sincerely, sherry lautsbaugh, president; kathy pounds, vice president; mary barker, sectary/tres.

My prayers and thoughts are with you both. You have given the ultimate sacrafice for a job you had so much passion for. May God be with you.

There is truly a silence in the air, and in our hearts. Your unselfishness will never be forgotten.

Sincerely,

John and Michele A

Joe is like a brother to me. I grew up with him and his other two brothers. Joe had a part in me deciding to try to become an officer. I hate that he is not with us. My family will always keep the memory of him alive and close.

My heart goes out to you all. And my prayers are for Eric right now. Luv u all! Retired Dispatcher, LL

SSD & Families,
I want you all to know that my heart and prayers go out to you. I am deeply sorry for your loss and I know this is a very hard time for all of you.
Just a few months ago a dear friend of mine only of 15 was taken from us also so I understand and feel the pain your goin through, especially because this has impacted my father greatly who new all three of the officers. My father, Rafael Rodriguez has tought me a lot inluding having faith and that whatever your beliefs are you will be seen through it. Just always remember that thier memories will never be fogotten.
I respect you all a grerat deal and once again my thought and prayers are with you.

Andrea Rodriguez

Im sorry to hear that such a thing had to happen and i pray for the families that are greving over a lose and i hope that with this funeral it can bring closeure for these families.

Dear families,
My mother and I would like to give you the deepest sympathy for your loss. We know it's a very trajic time for you right now. My brother, Brett A. Laws was a Stockton fire fighter killed in a tragic fire in Stockton a couple years ago, and we know what your going through. We deeply admire what your loved ones have done, putting their lives on the line, for the community. Its hard living everyday knowing they put their lives on the line. I have 2 uncles and 4 cousins still firemen.

The loss is extrelmely hard to cope with, but all the police and firemen take care of you extremely well. If you ever need any help dealing with your loss always feel free to email us anytime, and we will help you in any way we can. Just think of all the good times you've had with your loved one and cherish all your pictures you have. We know what your going through with your emotional load and we can help.

Love always, Sarah and Judy Booher.

PS, make sure you have a secretary keep tract of all flowers, and momentos. Its too hard to do it yourself, and it means a lot to go back and reveiw all them.

Thanks guys for all the love and hard work you gave to your families, and the neighborhoods of Sacramento. Your smiling faces and dedication will not be forgotten.

My deepest sympathy and prayers to the families of Kevin and Joe. They will be greatly missed. When I heard the tragic news that Star6 went down, the first person that came to my mind was Kevin. Just the past week he was telling me how much he loved it up there! These 2 heroes died not just working but actually doing something they have so much passion for. Their lives should be celebrated, and they will always be in our hearts

Please know that both men are in our thoughts and prayers. We don't know what to say other then thank you for all that you did to keep us safe. God bless you and your families, and know that you will never be forgotten.

Dear fellow Sister and Brothers; On July 13th some of us heard the words we never want to hear, "Mayday, mayday, we're going down". It's so hard to believe that we will never hear Joe or Kevin on the air again, or see them crusing over my neighborhood knowing that they are heading somewhere to lend a helping hand or for them lend some helping eyes. I want the department and families to know that my family and I are praying for you all. I know by the grace of God that they are in a better place and are still providing cover for the officers.
Eric, we continually pray for your complete and speedy recover. May God give you and your family strength always.

Words cannot express what you are all going through. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you!

Denise
Roseville PD Dispatch

Words can not comfort. Rest in knowing that a community, one by one, hand in hand, support each of you and the families of these officers.

My prayers continue for Erick, who I had the pleasure of working with now and again.

We hold you up with our strength, a community in sorrow.

Our thoughts and prayers will always be with you.

All of us owe so much to the brave men and women who risk life every day to keep us safe. It is a calling . I am a retired 17 year sworn Peace Officer who has mourned since this tragedy happened. These men are sill flying and watching over us today. They are just a little higher up as angels in heaven. My sincere condolences to the families.
-James Lowe

I was very sorry to hear of the loss of your deputies. I know how much we all become family in this business. Know that we are all thinking and praying for you.

May God comfort your friends, family and co-workers as they mourn losing both of you. May the wonderful memories they have of you sustain them in the days ahead. I never knew either of you, but my son and I saw your helicopter fying in Folsom in the last moments before it went down and wish there was something that we could have done to help. May God's perpetual light shine upon you.

The Pugno Family
MC Pugno (Gold River, CA )

Words alone can never express the magnitude of sorrow for the loss.

Our family knows what a tough a job the Law Enforcement community has despite the tragedies that occasionally befall you.

Please accept our heatfelt condolences for the loss of yur comrads in arms and they have already been in our prayers.

I had the honor to work with Joe, Kevin and Eric at one time or another during my 32 year career. To the family, friends and co-workers of the deputies, my heart goes out to you. They are "Pillars" of the sky and on more than one occassion have landed the chopper to assist ground units as they were the only backup. I am deeply saddened with this tragedy. Joe and Kevin were outstanding officers as well as individuals. I can't speak highly enough of them. In addition, my thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Eric.

PS; I just listened to the CHP "911" tapes from NEWS10 of the incident which brought tears to my eyes. There are no words that really can be said other than I'm so sorry for your loss.

Sergeant Jim Rose; Retired
Sacramento Sheriff's Department