Sanger Police Department's
Peace Officer's Memorial

FINAL INSPECTION

The policeman stood and faced his God, Which must always come to pass.
He hoped his shoes were shining. Just as bright as his brass.

"Step forward now, policeman. How shall I deal with you?
Have you always turned the other cheek? To my church have you been true?"

The policeman squared his shoulders and said, "No, Lord, I guess I ain't,
Because those of us who carry badges can't always be a saint.

I've had to work on most Sundays, and at times my talk was rough, and sometimes
I've been violent, because the streets are awfully tough. But I never took a penny, that wasn't mine
to keep.......... Though I worked a lot of overtime when the bills got too steep.

And I never passed a cry for help, though at times I shook with fear. And sometimes, God forgive me, I've wept
unmanly tears.

I know I don't deserve a place among the people here. They never wanted me around except to calm their fear.

If you've a place for me here, Lord, It needn't be so grand. I never expected or had too much, But if you
don't..........I'll understand."

There was silence all around the throne where the saints had often trod. As the policeman waited quietly,
For the judgment of his God.

"Step forward now, policeman, You've borne your burdens well. Come walk a beat on Heaven's streets,
You've done your time in hell."

Arch Angel Michael
Watches Over Police Officers

Sanger Police Department's
Fallen Comrades

Officer Perfecto "Pete" Medrano

Officer Perfecto "Pete" Medrano was killed in the line of duty on June 11, 1975.
Officer Medrano was in pursuit of a stolen vehicle when he became involved in
an automobile accident. The accident claimed his life, but not the memories we
have of him. He will be forever missed. Medrano Park was dedicated in his
name on June 11, 1995, Twenty years after his death.

Officer Penny Ann Martinez

Officer Penny Ann Martinez was killed while off duty on April 23, 1994 when
she was involved in a solo traffic accident just outside the city limits of
Sanger. Officer Martinez joined the Sanger Police Department on
March 16, 1990. Officer Martinez worked on patrol, in the Youth Services
Division and as a D.A.R.E. Officer with the Sanger Police Department.
She was a role model that can never be replaced.

Officer Stephen K. Parchim

Officer Stephen K. Parchim began his employment with the Sanger Police
Department as a reserve officer on December 3, 1985. He gained full
time status on March 16, 1990. On July 28, 1995 Officer Parchim retired
early from the Sanger Police Department for medical reasons. Officer
Parchim lost his battle with his illness on September 20, 1996. Although
Officer Parchim was not an active member of the Sanger Police Department
at the time of his death, his dedication to the community of Sanger will
not be forgotten and we honor his memory here.