I walk a path of hallowed steps,
Where the faint of heart still fear to tread.
I walk the halls of measured steps,
Where death and life walk hand in hand.
I put aside my life each day to keep the public safe.
I do my best to walk the walk and make my family proud.
When duty calls, and time is short, Lord let me stand my ground.
Beside my fellow officer where danger may be found.
All-in-all, each day Lord let me find-within my heart and soul,
The creed of honor and conviction-the boldness to be bold.
And when my fellow officer is too early laid to rest,
A man who did his duty-a soul that did its best.
I can't help but see me in his place,
A part of me has gone.
I worked with him-I died with him,
And now the memory:
To have fought the good fight daily...
To have always done the job...
To have kept the faith, in God, our families,
and in each other.
By Assistant Warden Ron Barry
Union Correctional Institution
Raiford, Florida
