Ofc. Michael F. Clark Remembered Today
In 1995 they numbered 163. Every year, year in and year out, it’s the same story. Sometimes more, and sometimes less: Peace officers dying in the line of duty. And, so it was in Simi Valley ten years ago today, August 4, 1995. It was a hot Friday afternoon, as August is wont to be in Southern California. Simi Valley Police Officer Michael F. Clark responded to a residence to check the welfare of what turned out to be a suicidal male. As Clark and a second officer approached the house, shots rang out from within and Clark lay mortally wounded in the front yard.
Michael Clark was fairly new to the Simi Valley Police Department having recently transferred from the Los Angeles Police Department after serving there for 5 years. Michael’s death was the first on-duty death for Simi P.D. in its then 24 year history.
At the time of his death, Michael Clark was just eight days short of celebrating his 29th birthday. He left a wife and a young son.
This incident reminds us that even the bucolic streets of a relatively safe city can suddenly be stained by the blood of those charged with protecting us. And, so it is and will always be. Men and women will put their welfare in danger’s way both at home and in foreign lands to protect us and our way of life.
We are indebted to you for your sacrifice Michael. And, we grieve with your wife and son for your passing. May the weight of your sacrifice sit gently upon their shoulders.
Michael Frederick Clark
Date of Birth: August 12, 1966
Date of Appointed: March 21, 1995
End of Watch: August 4, 1995
Visit the Michael F. Clark Memorial web site here.
The picture is of a rubbing from the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C.
Michael Clark was fairly new to the Simi Valley Police Department having recently transferred from the Los Angeles Police Department after serving there for 5 years. Michael’s death was the first on-duty death for Simi P.D. in its then 24 year history.
At the time of his death, Michael Clark was just eight days short of celebrating his 29th birthday. He left a wife and a young son.
This incident reminds us that even the bucolic streets of a relatively safe city can suddenly be stained by the blood of those charged with protecting us. And, so it is and will always be. Men and women will put their welfare in danger’s way both at home and in foreign lands to protect us and our way of life.
We are indebted to you for your sacrifice Michael. And, we grieve with your wife and son for your passing. May the weight of your sacrifice sit gently upon their shoulders.
Michael Frederick Clark
Date of Birth: August 12, 1966
Date of Appointed: March 21, 1995
End of Watch: August 4, 1995
Visit the Michael F. Clark Memorial web site here.
The picture is of a rubbing from the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C.
posted by Paul Coambs | 4:20 AM
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