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Gaz's Avatar
Gaz
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Join Date: Jun 2008
Location: Midlands, UK
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19-12-08, 05:53 PM
#1

A tree for Gavin

I planted a tree today. A tree for you, Gavin. A tree for a hero.



I didn't know this morning that I would be planting the tree. In the same way you didn't know you were going to be a hero. Twenty years ago today you were just another police officer, responding to just another call. An armed robbery at Midland Bank in Tile Hill. Twenty years ago today, Gavin, you were probably wondering what you were going to be doing for Christmas. Who was going to get you more socks. Or a scarf. You certainly didn't intend to be a hero.

Until today I didn't know you, Gavin. In the same way you didn't know your killer. Until he fired at point blank range, he was just another person. You were just another police officer.

I'm sorry, but it wasn't a heroic death. But you are still a hero. You knew the risks, and chose to do the job. Whether you like it or not, whilst it wasn't a heroic death it was the death of a hero.

Every year you are remembered by your colleagues. This year, 20 years on, I planted a treee. Your mother put soil on the tree. She still remembers you, and loves you. Your colleagues spoke fondly of you. They remember you. Even those who didn't know you remember you. You are respected.

So...I planted a tree today. A flowering cherry. In memory of a hero I never met, and will never meet. And I am sad. And proud.

Rest in Peace, PC Gavin Carlton. Aged 29. Know that you are remembered with pride and respect. And thank you for the honour of planting a tree. And for making my day a little richer.

Kit 1
Sony A57
Sony 3.5-5.6 /18-55
Sony 4.5-5.6 75-300
Tamron 4-5.6 70-300


     
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Azz
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19-12-08, 09:12 PM
#2

Re: A tree for Gavin

Nice tribute Gaz.
Kit 1
Nikon D300
Nikon 55-200mm VR
Kit 2
Nikon D40
Nikon 18-55mm
My Compact/P&S: Panasonic Lumix TZ7


     
perrodeagua
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Location: Manchester, UK
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20-12-08, 11:28 AM
#3

Re: A tree for Gavin

Put tears in my eyes, lovely!
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Canon 450D


     
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20-12-08, 12:02 PM
#4

Re: A tree for Gavin

The tree is a lovely way to remember someone but your words are really heartfelt and moving.
Kit 1
Pentax K7
Pentax 60-250mm
Sigma 105mm Macro
Pentax 12-24mm
Pentax 50mm 1.4
Sigma 50-500mm (Bigma)
Kit 2
Pentax K20d
Lens as other body
Other Kit
View my profile to see my other kit!
My Compact/P&S: Nikon P80


     
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20-12-08, 05:56 PM
#5

Re: A tree for Gavin

What a lovely thing to do for a colleague.
Kit 1
Canon EOS400D
Canon 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM
Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6
Canon EF-S 10-18mm
Kit 2
Canon EOS750D
My Compact/P&S: Panasonic TZ8


     
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Pepsieileen
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21-12-08, 03:30 PM
#6

Re: A tree for Gavin

Fantastic idea, well done.
Kit 1
Nikon D40x
Nikon 18-55mm
Nikon 55-200mm
My Compact/P&S: Sony DSC-W70


     
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