Complete Story
09/02/2008
Aubrey Hawkins: A True American Hero
A Letter From John Burke
I met Aubrey Hawkins for the first time at that 1999 training in Fort Worth, Texas. I had talked to him many times on the telephone before the conference, as he worked diligently to set up the first NADDI of Texas training conference. The conference was well organized with excellent attendance, and good speakers, all a credit to Aubrey's several months worth of work leading up to the training.
It wasn't too long afterwards that Aubrey called me to let me know he was joining the police department and that he wanted to still stay involved in NADDI in the future. It was obvious in his voice that he was very excited to become a police officer, probably a lifetime dream. After hanging up from his phone call, I never imagined that I would not see or talk to him again. He was murdered on Christmas Eve by seven cowards who had escaped from prison.
Unfortunately the American public too often thinks of their heroes as actors, singers, entertainers, and sports stars. Please take time to read the story of Aubrey Hawkins below, the story of a true American hero.
Sincerely,
John Burke
NADDI National President
A Letter From John B. Lyons
I remember being with my family on that Christmas Eve in 2000, and hearing about Aubrey's death on the 10 o'clock news. I will always regret that I did not attend the first NADDI conference in Fort Worth, and get the opportunity to meet Aubrey in person. He was a good man, a husband, a father, and a police officer. He will be missed for an eternity by those who knew and loved him. Rest in peace, my Brother.
Sincerely,
John B. Lyons
President, NADDI of Texas
